The Palo Alto Courthouse -- a division of the State Superior Court -- deals with criminal, small claims and traffic cases, and is presided over by four judges and two commissioners. The mission of the Superior Court is to serve the public by providing equal justice for all in a fair, accessible, effective, efficient, and courteous manner. The court is tasked with resolving disputes under the law, with applying the law consistently, impartially and independently, and with instilling public trust and confidence in the court.