had code citation from the village,

The standard answer is to go to the hearing.   Absence only leads to unknown and potentially bad results.  You should bring all relevant documentation about the transfer of ownership.  However, it does seem that your conduct was the source of the violation, so the transfer may be of no effect for the violations or the related ruling at the hearing. An inquiry may be in order to the Village attorney to send the documentation prior to court with a question then asked as to liability.  If you are told "not to worry" or that the case will be dismissed, a  written confirmation of this should be quickly sent with a copy kept by you.  If this is not the result, it merely confirms the need to appear. An answer to this question of liability should be answerable by a local attorney that handles ordiance violations and similar cases.  The local referral program at your county bar association is a good place to start.  The attorney can also be asked the fee for contacting the Village and forwarding the materials and/or appearing at the hearing.