County Vs. District Courts At A Glance

People actually or potentially subject to the judgment of the U.S. court system should recognize the distinction between a county court at law and a district court. County courts are often referred to as circuit courts, while district courts will exercise jurisdiction over a particular Federal district, as may make up several counties.

A county court at law may be given powers of original jurisdiction to originate the hearings toward particular legal proceedings. County courts may also be set up to exercise administrative functions for the purposes of the county. County courts may also hear appeals as to misdemeanor convictions passed in lower courts. In addition to a county, a county court at law can also exercise jurisdiction over a parish or a borough.

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