Rule 2.53 - To whom tried2.53(1)Generally. Judicial magistrates and district associate judges may hear, try, and determine simple misdemeanors.2.53(2)Transfer. District judges may transfer any simple misdemeanors pending before them to a judicial magistrate or district associate judge.2.53(3)Joint trial. When a simple misdemeanor arises out of the same transaction or occurrence as an indictable offense, preference should be given to consolidating the matters for trial.2.53(4)Jury trial. A simple misdemeanor is not tried to a jury unless the defendant timely requests a jury trial within 10 days following the plea of not guilty.66GA, ch 1245(2), § 1302; 67GA, ch 153, § 82; Report November 9, 2001, effective 2/15/2002; Court Order October 14, 2022, effective 7/1/2023.