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Court of Common Pleas Welcome!

Welcome to the Delaware
Court of Common Pleas



Mission:
The Court of Common Pleas is dedicated to the principle of equal and timely access to justice so that all individuals are treated with integrity, honesty, equality, respect for the rule of law and the rights of all. The Court uses all staff in a collaborative manner and operates efficiently while maintaining public trust and confidence.

Jurisdiction:
The Court of Common Pleas for the State of Delaware has criminal jurisdiction throughout the State over:

  • All Misdemeanors (except certain drug offenses)
  • Motor Vehicle Offenses
  • Preliminary Hearings in Felony Charges
  • Appeals of Criminal Matters from the Justice of the Peace Courts
  • Appeals of Criminal Matters from Alderman’s Courts

The Court of Common Pleas also has statewide jurisdiction over civil actions in:

  • Lawsuits where the amount in controversy does not exceed $50,000.00
  • Change of Name Petitions
  • Habitual Offender Motor Vehicle Hearings
  • Administrative Appeals from the Division of Motor Vehicles
  • Appeals of Civil Lawsuits from the Justice of the Peace Courts

Court of Common Pleas Implements "Traffic Court": The Court in New Castle County has implemented a procedure for handling most motor vehicle cases. The concept is designed and is implemented as a "Traffic Court," which is held each Tuesday. Intended to reduce the number of court appearances required by the public and to expedite the disposition of motor vehicle cases, the Court combines arraignment and trial into a single appearance. Read more...

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