Final answer:
Cases involving violations of city traffic ordinances are typically heard in Municipal or District/Municipal Courts. These courts handle minor misdemeanors, traffic violations, and civil cases with smaller stakes. State court structures can vary, but in general, Municipal Courts or their equivalents manage traffic and minor offenses.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cases involving violations of city traffic ordinances are typically heard in Municipal Courts or District/Municipal Courts. These courts deal with minor misdemeanor cases and traffic violations, among other civil matters. Municipal Courts serve at the city level and handle cases that involve city ordinances, including traffic tickets and other city-related infractions. Meanwhile, District Courts, which may also be referred to as Municipal Courts depending on the state, handle a broader range of lower-level criminal cases, including minor misdemeanor cases, and civil cases with smaller amounts in controversy.
In Michigan, for example, the District/Municipal Court is the jurisdiction where traffic ordinance violations would be addressed. They are presided by judges who serve six-year terms. For civil cases, they also encompass the Small Claims Court division for cases valued at $5,500 or less. Meanwhile, Circuit Courts handle more serious matters such as civil cases involving over $25,000, felony cases, and family affairs. Probate Courts focus on wills and estates, as well as juvenile cases.
It's important to note that court structures can vary from one state to another. Generally, most states have trial courts for original jurisdiction over cases, appellate courts for appeals, and a state supreme court as the highest judicial authority. State courts are key in the U.S. judicial system as they primarily manage state law violations, including most criminal cases and a vast array of civil disputes.