SB 534 - This act modifies procedures when a municipal judge becomes absent, sick or disqualified. For municipal courts with more than one judge, the presiding judge of the municipal court may request the presiding judge of the circuit court to designate a special municipal judge until the absence ceases. Alternatively, the presiding judge of the municipal court may issue designate a procedure where the municipal court administrator or court clerk may request the presiding judge of the circuit court to designate a special municipal judge. In the absence of multiple judges or a written procedure, the mayor or chairman of the board of trustees may make such request of the presiding judge of the circuit court. If it is impossible for the mayor or chairman to reach the presiding judge of the circuit court, the mayor or the chairman may designate a special municipal judge until the presiding judge of the circuit court can designate a special municipal judge.
JIM ERTLE