What variety of cases does the Superior Court hear?

The Superior Court has jurisdiction over a wide variety of cases, which includes both felony and civil cases. In Washington State, the Superior Court serves as the trial court of general jurisdiction, meaning it can hear serious criminal cases (felonies) as well as civil matters such as lawsuits involving significant sums of money, family law disputes, and other civil rights cases.

This broad jurisdiction is crucial for ensuring that more serious legal issues are addressed properly within the state. Felony cases are serious offenses that can result in substantial prison time and severe penalties, while civil cases involve disputes between individuals or organizations, allowing them to seek relief, often in the form of monetary damages or equitable remedies.

Other choices indicate a more limited scope that does not accurately reflect the full range of cases dealt with by the Superior Court. For example, focusing solely on civil cases ignores the court's role in the criminal justice system; similarly, limiting the jurisdiction to misdemeanor cases or minor traffic and infractions does not capture the court's capacity to handle more serious criminal and civil cases.