Defendants could choose jury trials for certain misdemeanor charges

Defendants may choose a jury trial in superior court or a circuit court trial without a jury. This applies to circuit court cases involving misdemeanor sexual assault, class A misdemeanor assault, or misdemeanor stalking. Choosing a circuit court trial waives the right to a jury trial and the right to appeal for a jury trial. Before holding that trial, the circuit court must question the defendant and find that the waiver is knowing, voluntary, and intelligent. A defendant choosing a jury trial must appeal to superior court within 30 days after arraignment. The act would take effect January 1, 2027.

The bill's appeal provisions make exceptions for the listed cases. They concern appeals from circuit court sentences and convictions for class A misdemeanors. The exceptions apply to the sexual assault, assault, and stalking cases listed in the bill.