What is the primary trial court for hearing felony cases in Georgia, with some exceptions for juveniles?

The primary trial court for hearing felony cases in Georgia is the Superior Court. This court has extensive jurisdiction and is primarily responsible for handling serious criminal offenses, including felony cases. In Georgia's judicial system, the Superior Court's role extends beyond just criminal matters; it also oversees significant civil cases, divorce proceedings, and land disputes. The ability to hear felony cases is crucial because these cases often involve severe penalties, including substantial prison time.

Other courts, such as the Magistrate Court, Probate Court, and Municipal Court, handle different types of cases and do not possess the jurisdiction to adjudicate felony cases. The Magistrate Court typically deals with minor civil disputes and misdemeanor offenses, the Probate Court handles matters related to wills and estates, and the Municipal Court primarily hears violations of city ordinances and misdemeanor crimes. Therefore, the Superior Court is the designated court in this context for felony trials, reinforcing its importance in the Georgia judicial system.