To whom tried

2.53(1) Generally. Judicial magistrates and district associate judges may hear, try, and determine simple misdemeanors. 2.53(2) Transfer. District judges may transfer any simple misdemeanors pending before them to a judicial magistrate or district associate judge. 2.53(3) Joint trial. When a simple misdemeanor arises out of the same transaction or occurrence as an indictable offense, preference should be given to consolidating the matters for trial. 2.53(4) Jury trial. A simple misdemeanor is not tried to a jury unless the defendant timely requests a jury trial within 10 days following the plea of not guilty. [66GA, ch 1245(2), §1302; 67GA, ch 153, §82; Report November 9, 2001, effective February 15, 2002; Court Order October 14, 2022, effective July 1, 2023]