PRESENTATION OUTLINE
Magistrate's Court
The Magistrate's Court is at a state level. There are 52 Magistrate's Courts, including the one in Melbourne CBD. They hear minor indictable offences and all summary offences. The maximum amount allowed to be involved in a case is $100,000. There is a single magistrate whose job is that of both the judge and the jury. Committal hearings are also heard in Magistrate Courts.
County Court
The County Court of Victoria is located on William Street in Melbourne. It is at a state level. It hears all serious indictable offences other than murder, such as armed robbery and treason. The County Court has unlimited jurisdiction. A judge is present at County Courts, and juries decide upon the verdict. The County Court also hears appeals from the Magistrate's Court.
Supreme Court
The Supreme Court is the highest court located in Victoria at a state level. It is located on William Street in Melbourne's CBD. The trial division hears cases such as murder and treason. It also has a Court of Appeal. The Supreme Court has unlimited civil jurisdiction. Judges or justices are present, as well as a jury.
High Court
The High Court of Australia is at a federal level and is located in Canberra. It hears appeals from state Supreme Courts and cases requiring the interpretation of the Constitution. It also has unlimited jurisdiction. 7 justices or judges always preside. Its decisions are final and apply to the whole country.
