Which court can conduct preliminary hearings?

Preliminary hearings serve as a critical step in the criminal justice process, allowing the court to determine whether there is enough evidence to proceed with a trial. In Arizona, both Justice Courts and Superior Courts have the authority to conduct preliminary hearings, depending on the nature and severity of the case.

Justice Courts typically handle lower-level offenses, such as misdemeanors and traffic violations, and can conduct preliminary hearings for cases within their jurisdiction. These courts play a key role in the early stages of criminal proceedings, providing a venue for determining probable cause.

On the other hand, Superior Courts in Arizona, which deal with more serious offenses, such as felonies, also conduct preliminary hearings. They take on cases that require a more in-depth review of evidence and legal arguments.

Given that both types of courts can conduct preliminary hearings based on the level of the offense, this makes the answer that includes both courts accurate. Understanding the responsibilities and functions of different court levels in Arizona is critical for those preparing to work in law enforcement and the legal field.