Cobb County Superior Court: An Overview
Cobb County Superior Court is a trial court of general jurisdiction in the state of Georgia, with the power to hear and decide a wide range of cases. The court is located in Marietta, Georgia and serves the citizens of Cobb County. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of Cobb County Superior Court, including its history, jurisdiction, types of cases heard, judges, and court procedures.
History of Cobb County Superior Court
Cobb County Superior Court was established in 1832, the same year Cobb County was created. The court has undergone many changes over the years, including changes to its name and jurisdiction. Today, Cobb County Superior Court is one of the busiest trial courts in the state of Georgia.
Jurisdiction of Cobb County Superior Court
Criminal Jurisdiction
Cobb County Superior Court has jurisdiction over all felony cases in Cobb County, including murder, rape, and drug offenses. The court also has the power to hear and decide misdemeanor cases that have been appealed from the lower courts.
Civil Jurisdiction
Cobb County Superior Court has jurisdiction over civil cases where the amount in controversy exceeds $25,000. These cases may involve contract disputes, personal injury claims, and property disputes.
Juvenile Jurisdiction
Cobb County Superior Court has exclusive jurisdiction over juvenile cases, including delinquency, deprivation, and termination of parental rights.
Types of Cases Heard in Cobb County Superior Court
Criminal Cases
Cobb County Superior Court hears a wide range of criminal cases, including felony and misdemeanor offenses. The court also has jurisdiction over probation revocation hearings and appeals of lower court decisions.
Civil Cases
Cobb County Superior Court hears a variety of civil cases, including contract disputes, personal injury claims, and property disputes. The court also has jurisdiction over appeals of lower court decisions.
Family Law Cases
Cobb County Superior Court hears family law cases, including divorce, child custody, and child support cases.
Juvenile Cases
Cobb County Superior Court has exclusive jurisdiction over juvenile cases, including delinquency, deprivation, and termination of parental rights.
Judges of Cobb County Superior Court
Cobb County Superior Court is comprised of six judges, who are elected by the citizens of Cobb County. The judges serve four-year terms and are responsible for hearing and deciding cases in their assigned divisions.
Court Procedures
Filing a Lawsuit
To file a lawsuit in Cobb County Superior Court, a person must complete a form called a “Complaint” and file it with the court. The Complaint must include a detailed description of the claim being made and the relief being sought.
Serving Papers
After a lawsuit has been filed, the Complaint and other legal documents must be served on the defendant. This is typically done by a process server or the sheriff’s office.
Pre-Trial Procedures
Before a case goes to trial, there are several pre-trial procedures that must be completed, including discovery, motion practice, and settlement negotiations.
Trial
If a case proceeds to trial, a judge or a jury will hear the evidence presented by both sides and make a decision based on the facts of the case and the law. In a criminal case, the burden of proof is on the prosecution to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In a civil case, the burden of proof is on the plaintiff to prove their case by a preponderance of the evidence.
Appeals
If a party is dissatisfied with the decision of the trial court, they may have the right to appeal the decision to a higher court. Appeals are generally based on errors of law made by the trial court, rather than on a re-examination of the facts of the case.
Cobb County Superior Court Case Search
The Cobb County Superior Court provides an online case search tool that allows the public to search for cases filed in the court. The case search tool can be accessed through the court’s website and can be used to search for both civil and criminal cases.
Cobb County Superior Court Clerk
The Cobb County Superior Court Clerk is responsible for maintaining the records of the court. The clerk’s office is located at the courthouse and can be contacted by phone or in person during regular business hours. The clerk’s office provides a number of services to the public, including case search, records requests, and more.
Cobb County Superior Court Docket
The Cobb County Superior Court docket is a schedule of the cases that are scheduled to be heard by the court. The docket is updated regularly and can be accessed online through the court’s website. The docket provides information on the date, time, and location of each hearing, as well as the names of the parties involved in the case.
Cobb County Superior Court Judges
Cobb County Superior Court is comprised of six judges who are elected by the people of Cobb County. The judges are responsible for hearing and deciding cases, and they are appointed to serve for a term of four years.
Cobb County Superior Court Passport
The Cobb County Superior Court provides passport services to the public. The passport office is located at the courthouse and can be contacted by phone or in person during regular business hours. The passport office provides a number of services, including passport applications, passport photos, and more.
Cobb County Superior Court Clerk Phone Number
The phone number for the Cobb County Superior Court Clerk’s office is (770) 528-1300. The office can be contacted during regular business hours, which are Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Cobb County Magistrate Court Case Search
The Cobb County Magistrate Court also provides an online case search tool that allows the public to search for cases filed in the court. The case search tool can be accessed through the court’s website and can be used to search for both civil and criminal cases.
Cobb County Superior Court Directory
The Cobb County Superior Court directory is a comprehensive list of all the judges, clerks, and other staff members who work in the court. The directory can be accessed online through the court’s website and provides contact information for each person listed.
Conclusion
Cobb County Superior Court is an important institution in the state of Georgia, with the power to hear and decide a wide range of cases. From criminal cases to civil cases, family law cases, and juvenile cases, the court plays a critical role in the administration of justice in Cobb County.
FAQs
- What is the address of Cobb County Superior Court?
The address of Cobb County Superior Court is 70 Haynes Street, Marietta, Georgia 30090.
- How many judges sit on Cobb County Superior Court?
Cobb County Superior Court is comprised of six judges.
- Can I file a lawsuit in Cobb County Superior Court without a lawyer?
Yes, you can file a lawsuit in Cobb County Superior Court without a lawyer, but it is recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified attorney.
- How long does it take for a case to go to trial in Cobb County Superior Court?
The length of time it takes for a case to go to trial in Cobb County Superior Court can vary depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of the case and the court’s docket.
- What types of cases does Cobb County Superior Court have exclusive jurisdiction over?
Cobb County Superior Court has exclusive jurisdiction over juvenile cases, including delinquency, deprivation, and termination of parental rights.
