Texas Basic Peace Officer Certification Practice Exam

Which court has original jurisdiction in felony cases and certain types of civil cases (e.g., divorce)?

1. Texas Supreme Court

2. District Court

3. County Court at Law

4. Appellate Court

The correct answer is: District Court

The district court is the correct answer as it possesses original jurisdiction in felony cases as well as in various civil matters, including divorces. This jurisdiction means that it is the court where a case is first filed and adjudicated, allowing it to conduct trials and make determinations on the evidence presented. District courts are integral to the Texas judicial system, handling a broad range of serious felony offenses and significant civil disputes, which contributes to their vital role in maintaining the legal process within the state. In contrast, the Texas Supreme Court functions primarily as an appellate court, reviewing decisions from lower courts and not exercising original jurisdiction over felony or civil cases. The county court at law typically handles civil cases and misdemeanors but does not have the same broad jurisdiction over felonies as the district court. Appellate courts also do not have original jurisdiction; their purpose is to hear appeals from lower courts rather than initiate cases. This distinction underscores the role of district courts as key venues for serious legal matters within Texas.