Legal Division

The Legal Division of the City of Danville consists of 2 attorneys and 2 staff members. The Legal Division prosecutes all City ordinance violation cases, which includes demolition and building code violations, as well as collection of delinquent bills owed to the city. The Legal Division is also responsible for preparation and enforcement of certain City ordinances and advising City officials and Departments concerning the ordinances. In 2001, Municipal Court was added as an additional means for resolving legal matters. The program has been very successful.

Municipal Court
A case may be referred to Municipal Court after a complaint is filed by a City Official in response to an ordinance violation. A Complaint includes:
  • Violation
  • Respondent Information
  • Date, Time and Location of Hearing
After a complaint is filed, the City Code Hearing Division will file the complaint and issue a Docket number.

The respondent will then be served with the complaint and summons to appear and will include such information as:
  • Code Violation
  • Date, Time and Location of Hearing
  • Jurisdiction
  • Penalties for failure to appear
Hearing dates are scheduled on Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. in Council Chambers at the Robert E. Jones Municipal Building, 17 West Main Street, Danville, IL.

On the initial hearing date, the respondent may plead guilty or not guilty to the violation. At a trial the respondent may present witnesses or evidence, cross examine opposing witnesses, and be represented by counsel. Subpoenas may be requested for witnesses.

Failure to appear at a hearing may result in the respondent being in default and proceeding with the hearing. After the hearing, the hearing officer will make a determination on the basis of the evidence presented. If the hearing officer determines that no violation occurred, the case is dismissed. If the hearing officer determines that a violation occurred, the penalties may be issued. Penalties may include:
  • Fines, ranging between $100 and $2,500
  • Restitution
  • Abating a property violation
  • Court costs, which include:
    1. File Management Record Keeping ($20.00)
    2. Hearing Office Fee ($40.00)
    3. Attorney Fees ($40.00)
    4. CRIMESTOPPERS/Peer Court ($5.00)
After a decision is made a copy of the decision and order will be sent to the respondent within 5 days.

A new hearing to set aside an order may be set if a petition is filed within 21 days after the order was issued.

The findings and decision are subject to review in the Circuit Court through the Administrative Review Law.

Any fine or costs that are unpaid after the time allowed for judicial review are a debt owed to the City of Danville.

Staff
Dave Wesner
Corporation Counsel   

Bethany Nystrom 
Assistant Corporation Counsel

Becky Beddow
Legal Secretary

Karen Waclaw
Legal Secretary
(217)431-2297


(217)431-3459



(217)431-2296


(217)431-2296