North Carolina has two different criminal courts. District and Superior.  Serious crimes that carry lengthy prison terms (felonies) are tried in Superior Court while less serious crimes (misdemeanors and “lesser infractions”) are tried in District Court.

Felonies include such crimes as murder, rape, armed robbery, forgery, serious drug charges, embezzlement and grand theft.  Misdemeanors include speeding, passing worthless checks, driving under the influence, etc..  Those convicted of misdemeanors may serve short jail sentences, but punishments usually consist of community service, probation and/or fines.

North Carolina consists of 64 Superior Court districts with 105 Superior Court judges who preside over 280,000 cases each year. 

All Superior Court cases start in District court.  If you have been charged with a felony, you will make your first appearance in District Court.  Furthermore, District Courts will often hold a hearing to determine whether there is enough evidence to send the case on to Superior Court.

Whether in District or Superior Court, just because you have been charged does not mean that you are guilty.  Guilt must be determined by a judge or jury.