The Superior Court of the Alapaha Circuit is a court of general jurisdiction handling both civil and criminal law actions.  Superior Court judges preside over cases involving misdemeanors, contract disputes, premises liability, and various other actions. In addition, the Superior Court has exclusive equity jurisdiction over all cases of divorce, title to land, and felonies involving jury trials, including death penalty cases.

In common law systems, a superior court is a court of general competence which typically has unlimited jurisdiction with regard to civil and criminal legal cases. A superior court is “superior” relative to a court with limited jurisdiction, (such as a Magistrate Court) which is restricted to civil cases involving monetary amounts with a specific limit, or criminal cases involving offenses of a less serious nature. A superior court may hear appeals from lower courts.

The Superior Court Clerk handles Jury Management, On-Line Citation Payments, Register Trade Names, Board of Equalization, Protective Registry, Notary Public Commissions & Renewals, and
Military Discharges

Probate Court Exercises Jurisdiction Over Birth and Death Certificates, Fireworks Permits,  Involuntary Hospitalization/Outpatient Evaluation, Probate of Wills, Weapons Carry License, Various other Administrative Duties, Temporary and Permanent Guardians of Minors, Marriage Licenses, and Guardians and Conservators of Adults

The Court offers a quick and inexpensive process for complaint resolution.  Monetary claims of $15,000 or less, contractual disputes, dispossessory actions, personal injury, personal property, foreclosures, and suits on account may all be filed in the Magistrate Court.  Additionally, the Magistrate Court issues criminal arrest warrants, search warrants, conducts first appearances to set bond, and hearings on violations of the Berrien County Code or Ordinances.  Any individual who is a party to one of the above actions may appear on her/her behalf or may be represented by an attorney.