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 California, traffic courts are specialized divisions within the Superior Court system that handle cases involving vehicle code violations, such as speeding tickets, red light violations, and other infractions. These courts also deal with misdemeanor offenses related to traffic, such as driving without a valid license or driving under the influence (DUI). Traffic court proceedings in California are typically less formal than those in criminal court, but they follow the same basic legal principles. Defendants have the right to be represented by an attorney, to present evidence, and to cross-examine witnesses. Penalties for traffic violations can include fines, points on the driver's license, traffic school, and in some cases, jail time. It's important to note that while traffic courts handle infractions and misdemeanors, more serious offenses, such as felony DUIs, are handled in the criminal court system.