Common pleas refers to a type of court that has general jurisdiction over various legal matters, primarily civil cases. This court handles all civil causes, including both real actions (related to property) and personal actions (related to individuals). Historically, common pleas courts were the primary venues for resolving disputes involving real property and civil issues.
Common pleas courts are essential in the legal system, dealing with a wide range of civil cases. They typically handle:
Users can often manage their cases by utilizing legal templates available through resources like US Legal Forms, which provide guidance and necessary documentation for various civil actions.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Here are two examples of cases that might be heard in a common pleas court:
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
| State | Common Pleas Court Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | Common pleas courts handle all civil cases, including family law. |
| Ohio | Common pleas courts have jurisdiction over civil and criminal cases. |
| New York | Common pleas functions are integrated into the Supreme Court, which handles civil matters. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| District Court | A court that typically handles federal cases and some state cases. | Common pleas courts focus on state civil matters, while district courts handle federal jurisdiction. |
| Small Claims Court | A court designed to resolve minor disputes quickly and inexpensively. | Common pleas courts handle larger civil cases, while small claims courts limit the amount of money involved. |
If you find yourself needing to file a case in a common pleas court, consider the following steps:
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Jurisdiction | Civil cases, including real and personal actions |
| Typical Fees | Varies by state and case type |
| Possible Penalties | Depends on case outcome and applicable laws |
Common pleas courts typically hear civil cases, including contract disputes, personal injury claims, and property disputes.