The institution exercises the right of the state to prosecute persons who are alleged to have committed crimes.

The district courts are, in principle, subject matter competent to hear most civil (also enforcement, custody of minors) and criminal cases at first instance.

District courts have subject matter jurisdiction over most civil and criminal cases at first instance.

County courts are typically appellate courts, deciding appeals from district court judgments as second instance courts, and always finally.

District courts have subject matter jurisdiction over most civil and criminal cases at first instance.