Bruketta sworn in as Justice of the Peace

Carson City has a new Justice of the Peace as Melanie Bruketta was sworn in Friday by First Judicial District Court Judge James Todd Russell.

“As I take the oath of office, I am humbled by the trust you have placed in me as a Justice of the Peace,” said Bruketta.

The ceremony took place in the justice/municipal department 2 courtroom of the Carson City Courthouse. In July, the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a temporary appointment of Bruketta effective through Jan. 5, 2025, when her new full term begins. The appointment filled the seat vacated by First Judicial District Court Judge Kristin Luis. In June, Bruketta won the Primary Election with more than 50 percent of the vote, securing a new full term.

Before having Bruketta recite the oath of office, Russell imparted some advice:

“Be punctual. Be prepared. Be honest. And, as important as anything, leave your politics, your religion, your friends at the courthouse steps,” he said.

According to the city’s website, justice and municipal court “has authority to determine probable cause, hold arraignments/first appearances, and conduct trials on misdemeanors, Driving Under the Influence (DUI’s) and traffic offenses.”

“In addition, the court sets bails, issues warrants, monitors suspended sentences for compliance of conditions and conducts felony preliminary hearings,” according to the city. “The court is responsible for assessing misdemeanor fines and forfeitures and collecting civil fees. The court has authority to hear and decide small claim disputes up to $7,500 and formal civil actions up to $10,000. The court hears all landlord/tenant disputes; issues temporary protective orders, stalking orders and other civil orders; and holds hearings on contested cases.”

Bruketta’s parents, Linda and Neil Fox, helped their daughter put on the judicial robe. In taking the oath of office, Bruketta swore to support, protect and defend the constitutions and governments of the U.S. and Nevada against enemies whether domestic or foreign. She thanked family, friends and mentors including Senior Judge John Tatro, who had filled in until Bruketta took the bench.

“This courtroom was created in 1994, and since that time there have been three Justices of the Peace elected to serve in this department: William Furlong, John Tatro, and Kristin Luis,” Bruketta said. “I know that I have big shoes to fill. As a Justice of the Peace, I pledge to uphold the principles of justice, fairness and integrity. I promise to listen attentively, to weigh evidence carefully and to apply the law impartially. I’m committed to ensuring that every person who enters this courtroom feels heard and respected.”

Bruketta also mentioned late District Court Judge Michael Fondi, a mentor of hers from her time in the DA’s Office. The robe she put on had been worn by Fondi.

“I will try my best to make him proud and reflect on what he taught me,” she said.

She said she would make decisions that would honor the dignity of every individual and uphold the rule of law.

“Thank you for entrusting me with this solemn duty,” Bruketta said. “I look forward to continuing to build a just and equitable community together.”