What You Need to Know
If you’re facing a misdemeanor charge, traffic violation, or city code issue in Tempe, Arizona, chances are your case will be heard in Tempe Municipal Court Division 2. This court plays a crucial role in upholding justice at the city level and operates under Arizona state law and Tempe’s local ordinances.
📍 Court Location & Hours
Tempe Municipal Court is located at:
140 E 5th Street, Tempe, AZ 85281
⏰ Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (excluding holidays)
This central location is easily accessible from downtown Tempe and Arizona State University, and it’s situated near public transportation hubs and several city parking garages. Be sure to arrive early to account for parking and courthouse security procedures.
⚖️ What Is Division 2?
“Division 2” refers to a designation within Tempe Municipal Court’s internal structure. It doesn’t necessarily indicate a separate building but rather a division of judicial assignments and case types. The City Code Article II, Division 2 outlines how judges and hearing officers are appointed and supervised within the court system.
Cases in Division 2 can include:
- Misdemeanor criminal charges
- DUI and traffic offenses
- City ordinance violations
- Civil traffic citations
- Orders of protection and injunctions against harassment
Who Is the Judge in Division 2?
Cases at the Tempe Municipal Court are divided among multiple courtrooms and judicial officers. As of the most recent publicly available information:
- Judge Tara Fuller presides over Division 2 (Courtroom 2) at Tempe Municipal Court.
- She is one of several judges and hearing officers assigned to the court, which also includes:
- Presiding Judge: Kevin Kane
- Courtroom 1: Judge Kerry Rait
👨⚖️ Who Is the Presiding Judge?
Judge Kevin Kane is currently the Presiding Judge of the Tempe Municipal Court. Appointed in 2016, Judge Kane has extensive experience in both trial and municipal law. Before his role in Tempe, he served as a judge in Phoenix and has built a reputation for fairness, accessibility, and efficient courtroom management.
His responsibilities include:
- Overseeing the court’s judicial operations
- Managing case assignments across court divisions
- Ensuring compliance with court procedures and access to justice initiatives
Judge Kane is known for prioritizing procedural fairness and community-based programs like Veterans Court and Mental Health Court.
📝 What to Expect at Your Hearing
For many, Tempe Municipal Court is their first experience with the justice system. Here’s what to know if you have a scheduled appearance:
- Security: All visitors must pass through metal detectors. Arrive at least 15 minutes early.
- Sign-in: You’ll need to check in at the front desk before entering the courtroom.
- Dress code: Business casual attire is recommended. Avoid hats, sunglasses, and overly casual clothing.
- Courtroom decorum: Phones should be off or silenced. Address the judge respectfully and speak only when asked.
If you fail to appear, a bench warrant may be issued for your arrest. Always consult an attorney if you’re unsure about your obligations.
💼 Why Legal Representation Matters
Even though Tempe Municipal Court handles “lower-level” offenses compared to Superior Court, the outcomes can still affect your life significantly—especially in DUI, domestic violence, or protective order cases. Having experienced local representation, like Rideout Law Group, can make the difference between a conviction and a dismissal or reduction.
Our legal team is familiar with Division 2 operations, the presiding judge, and the procedures that shape your case outcome. We help clients navigate everything from arraignments and pretrial conferences to trial or dismissal negotiations.
🧭 Need Legal Help in Tempe?
If you’re scheduled to appear in Tempe Municipal Court Division 2, don’t go it alone. Our attorneys at Rideout Law Group have deep experience in municipal criminal defense, traffic violations, and protective orders throughout Maricopa County.
📍Office Nearby: Rideout Law Group – Scottsdale | 11111 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 225, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
📞 Call: (480) 584-3328 | Free consultations available