What is the function of a sworn complaint or citation in municipal court proceedings?

• A. To initiate the case and inform the defendant of the charges
• B. To determine guilt
• C. To set bail
• D. To appoint counsel

Answer: (A)

A sworn complaint or citation functions to start the case and tell the defendant what they’re being charged with. A sworn complaint is a formal, written accusation made under oath that names the offense and triggers the court to issue process—like a summons or warrant—and move the case forward. It sets the charges in the record so the defendant knows what to answer to. It doesn’t determine guilt—guilt is decided only after the defendant appears, pleads, and the case is heard with evidence presented. Bail decisions and the appointment of counsel happen separately as the case progresses, not from the complaint or citation itself.