Rule 17. Judgment

(a) Burden of Proof. The burden of proof shall be on the prosecution to a standard of clear and convincing evidence. Following an adjudication of the charged violation(s), a judgment shall enter on a separate document signed by the judicial officer that the defendant is "guilty" or "not guilty" of violating the motor vehicle code or other applicable statute.

(b) Judgment. All judgments shall be in writing. A judgment shall set forth the plea or adjudication and the sentence. If the defendant is found not guilty or the charge is dismissed, judgment shall be entered accordingly. The judgment shall be signed by the judicial officer.

(c) Default Judgment. A default judgment may enter against the defendant upon the defendant's failure to appear at a trial and/or the first appearance. A default judgment may enter upon proof that:

(1) The officer issued the summons consistent with the statutory requirements as set forth in Rule 3(b); and

(2) A copy of the summons was served upon the defendant in person or by mailing to his or her last known address. Upon entry of a default judgment, the defendant's operator's license and/or privileges may be ordered suspended pending compliance with the judgment imposed in the discretion of the court.

(d) Dismissal. If the prosecution fails to appear for trial and/or the first appearance, the matter may be dismissed.