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HB 1032

AN ACT to create and enact a new subsection to section 27-05-06 and chapter 40-18.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to jurisdiction of district courts and municipal court requirements, jurisdiction, procedures, and processes; to amend and reenact subsection 1 of section 29-07-01.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to indigent defense; and to repeal sections 40-11-10, 40-11-11, 40-11-12, and 40-11-13 and chapter 40-18 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to ordinance violations and municipal judges.

69th Legislative Assembly (2025-26)

North Dakota consolidates municipal ordinance violation jurisdiction into district courts, repealing the municipal court system and restructuring indigent defense provisions.

Filed with Secretary Of State 04/23
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1032

Legislative bill overview

HB 1032 restructures North Dakota's municipal court system by consolidating ordinance violation jurisdiction into district courts, repealing the existing municipal court framework for handling code violations. The bill also amends indigent defense provisions to align with this jurisdictional shift and establishes new procedures and requirements for municipal courts under a revised statutory chapter.

Why is this important

This change fundamentally alters how North Dakota handles local ordinance violations—moving them from specialized municipal courts to the general district court system. This affects how cities enforce local laws, manage caseloads, and provide legal representation to low-income defendants, with potential implications for court efficiency, access to justice, and local government operations.

Potential points of contention

  • Court capacity concerns: District courts may face increased caseloads from ordinance violations previously handled by municipal courts, potentially slowing resolution of more serious cases
  • Local government authority: Cities may lose direct control over ordinance enforcement and court administration, shifting power to state-level district court systems
  • Cost and resource allocation: The bill requires clarification on who bears costs for the transition—municipalities, the state, or both—and how indigent defense will be funded under the new system
  • Access to justice trade-offs: Consolidating into district courts could mean longer wait times for resolution of minor violations but potentially more consistent legal procedures and appellate protections

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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