Municipal courts have jurisdiction over misdemeanor crimes, municipal ordinances and city traffic violations. Municipal judges may conduct initial appearances in which defendants are advised of the charges being filed, as well as bond hearings and preliminary hearings.

There are 239 Municipal Courts.  Also, a few municipal judges serve multiple jurisdictions. Most municipalities have one municipal judge, although a few jurisdictions have several.

Most municipal judges are appointed by governing bodies of municipalities. Terms of office vary.