A police court, also known as a municipal court or magistrate’s court in some jurisdictions, is a local court that typically handles minor criminal offenses, traffic violations, and other infractions within a specific geographic area, such as a city or municipality. These courts are presided over by a magistrate or judge and have jurisdiction over cases involving violations of local ordinances, misdemeanours, and low-level offenses. Police courts often serve as the initial venue for criminal cases, where arraignments, bail hearings, and other preliminary matters are addressed. They play a crucial role in the administration of justice at the local level and help to ensure the enforcement of laws and ordinances within the community.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.
To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.
- Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/police-court/
- Modern Language Association (MLA):Police Court. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. April 18, 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/police-court/.
- Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Police Court. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/police-court/ (accessed: April 18, 2024).
- American Psychological Association (APA):Police Court. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved April 18, 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/police-court/
