A county judge in Florida is a trial judge who presides over cases in the county court, handling criminal misdemeanors and civil cases involving specific monetary limits.
Understanding the Role of a Florida County Judge
In Florida's judicial system, county courts serve as the first point of contact for many citizens. County judges are essential figures in this structure, responsible for hearing a significant volume of cases that impact daily lives. They play a crucial role in ensuring local justice and upholding the law within their specific jurisdiction.
Jurisdiction and Case Types
Florida county judges have a defined scope of authority, primarily dealing with less severe criminal offenses and civil disputes below a certain financial threshold. Both county court and circuit court judges in Florida are considered trial judges, meaning they preside over courtroom proceedings, hear evidence, and make rulings.
Criminal Misdemeanors
County judges hear criminal misdemeanors. These are crimes that carry a possible sentence of less than one year in jail.
Examples of cases handled by county judges include:
- Petty theft
- First-time DUI offenses
- Minor assault and battery
- Disorderly conduct
Civil Cases
For civil cases, county judges handle disputes where the amount in controversy is $15,000 or less. These cases typically involve disagreements between individuals or entities seeking monetary compensation or specific actions.
Common civil cases in county court include:
- Small claims disputes
- Landlord-tenant disputes (e.g., evictions, security deposit issues)
- Contract breaches or property damage claims within the financial limit
To summarize the types of cases handled by Florida county judges:
| Case Type | Description | Key Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal | Misdemeanors, which are less severe criminal offenses | Possible sentence of less than one year in jail |
| Civil | Disputes between parties, often involving financial claims | Amount in dispute is $15,000 or less |
Key Characteristics of Florida County Judges
- Trial Judges: They are central figures in the courtroom, responsible for managing trials, interpreting laws, and ensuring fair legal processes.
- Elected Officials: County judges are typically elected by the voters within their respective counties for specific terms.
- Local Impact: Their decisions directly affect the residents and businesses within the county, making them highly accessible and relevant to community legal matters.
