What are the two types of cases typically handled in Magistrate Court?

Prepare for the New Mexico Law Enforcement Officer Certification Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each query includes hints and explanations to enhance understanding. Get exam-ready today!

Magistrate Courts primarily handle a specific set of legal matters that include petty misdemeanors and civil cases. Petty misdemeanors are minor crimes that can lead to less severe penalties compared to higher-level misdemeanors or felonies. These typically include offenses that may result in a fine or short-term jail sentence. On the civil side, Magistrate Courts often deal with small claims and disputes, such as landlord-tenant issues, which are essential for resolving conflicts at a community level without overwhelming the higher courts with less severe cases.

The other options list types of cases that either fall outside the jurisdiction of Magistrate Courts or are less typical. For instance, felonies are considered more serious offenses that are typically handled in District Courts rather than Magistrate Courts. Traffic violations may also be addressed in specific specialized courts or divisions, thus not accurately reflecting the dual nature of cases generally present in Magistrate Courts.

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