South Carolina Bail Bonds Practice Exam

What type of crimes are heard in the circuit or general sessions court?

1. Felony

2. Misdemeanor

3. Infractions

4. Civil offenses

The correct answer is: Felony

Circuit or general sessions court in South Carolina primarily hears felony cases. Felonies are serious criminal offenses that typically carry harsher penalties, including imprisonment for more than one year or even life sentences. This level of court is appropriate for these more severe charges due to the gravity of the crimes involved, which often necessitate a more formal trial setting with a jury. In contrast, misdemeanors and infractions are typically handled in lower courts, such as magistrate or municipal courts. Misdemeanors involve lesser offenses that carry lighter penalties, usually resulting in less than one year of imprisonment, while infractions usually attract fines rather than jail time. Civil offenses also fall outside the jurisdiction of the circuit court, as they are adjudicated in civil courts rather than criminal courts. Thus, it is clear that felony cases are the ones specifically designated for circuit or general sessions court in South Carolina.