There are three levels in the general court hierarchy in New South Wales.
Most courts have both civil and criminal jurisdiction.
The essential differences between these jurisdictions are the parties in dispute and the nature of the orders made by the court. Criminal matters are generally brought to a court by a government prosecuting agency, such as the Director of Public Prosecutions. They can also be commenced by the Attorney General, local councils and others. There can be more than one plaintiff or defendant. The formal structure is not the only means of official dispute resolution in New South Wales.