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 Texas, traffic courts, often referred to as municipal courts, handle a variety of cases related to traffic violations. These courts deal with infractions such as speeding, running a red light, parking violations, driver's license issues, liability insurance requirements, and equipment violations like malfunctioning lights. The offenses addressed in these courts are typically classified as Class C misdemeanors, which are the lowest level of misdemeanor offenses under Texas law. These courts do not handle felony offenses. Penalties for traffic violations can include fines, driving record points, and sometimes, depending on the severity and nature of the offense, license suspension. Some traffic violations may also require mandatory court appearances. It's important to note that while municipal courts handle traffic violations within city limits, Justice of the Peace Courts may handle traffic cases in areas outside of those limits.
