Traffic courts (also known as municipal courts) are generally courts that are dedicated to prosecuting and resolving tickets or citations for traffic, parking, driver’s license, liability insurance, defective equipment (headlights, brake lights, turning lights, etc.), and license plate violations. These are usually lower level misdemeanor offenses (as opposed to felony offenses).
In Alabama, traffic courts, often referred to as municipal courts, handle a variety of non-felony traffic-related offenses. These courts deal with cases involving traffic tickets, parking violations, driver's license issues, mandatory liability insurance infractions, and defective vehicle equipment such as malfunctioning lights. The offenses prosecuted in these courts are typically classified as misdemeanors or violations, which are less severe than felony offenses. The procedures and penalties in traffic court can vary depending on the specific municipality, but generally, they are designed to be more streamlined than those in higher courts. Penalties for these offenses may include fines, points on a driver's license, driving school, probation, or even jail time in some cases. It's important for individuals facing charges in traffic court to understand their rights and the potential consequences of their case. An attorney can provide legal advice specific to the circumstances of the offense and the jurisdiction in which the ticket was issued.