Magistrate Courts are local courts that handle minor criminal cases, civil disputes, and preliminary hearings for more serious offenses. They are often the first point of contact for individuals involved in the legal system. These courts typically deal with issues like traffic violations, small claims, and family matters, providing a more accessible and less formal environment than higher courts. In many jurisdictions, Magistrate Courts are presided over by a magistrate, who is a judicial officer with the authority to make decisions on cases. Their rulings can often be appealed to higher courts, ensuring a system of checks and balances within the legal framework.