What is a primary function of the Circuit Court in the Michigan court system?

The primary function of the Circuit Court in the Michigan court system is to handle both criminal and civil cases. This court serves as a trial court of general jurisdiction, meaning it has the authority to hear a wide range of cases, including felony criminal matters, large civil cases, family law issues, and many types of appeals from lower courts.

Handling criminal and civil cases encompasses a variety of responsibilities, such as conducting trials, making determinations in disputes, and addressing the range of legal issues presented to it. This is fundamental to the judicial process, as it allows for the resolution of both individual and state matters within the court system.

In contrast, the other options refer to functions that are not primarily associated with the Circuit Court. For example, managing traffic violations is typically handled by district or municipal courts rather than Circuit Courts, and conducting federal hearings falls under the jurisdiction of federal courts. Review of appellate cases pertains more closely to appellate courts, which focus on evaluating decisions made by lower courts rather than initiating trials. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the Circuit Court's broad role in overseeing significant legal matters within its jurisdiction.