Introduction There are both state and federal level courts operating within Arizona.
Generally, cases dealing with interpretations or violations of state and local laws , or matters between citizens or institutions of Arizona, are heard in state courts. Whether a matter is heard in one court or another depends upon a variety of factors, including whether state or local laws are at issue, the dollar amount of the claim, and whether the matter is being appealed. Justice Court has a Small Claims Division for civil matters which involve dollar amounts under a certain limit. Also consult the web sites for both City Court and Pima County Justice Courts . Superior Court is the trial court for many civil and criminal matters in Arizona and is known as a court of general jurisdiction.