First-level courts in the Philippines are the lowest tier of the judiciary. They include Metropolitan Trial Courts (MeTCs), Municipal Trial Courts (MTCs), Municipal Trial Courts in Cities (MTCCs), and Municipal Circuit Trial Courts (MCTCs). These courts handle minor civil, criminal, and special cases. Their civil jurisdiction covers actions involving personal property, ejectment cases such as unlawful detainer and forcible entry, and small claims.
As to criminal cases, they have jurisdiction over offenses punishable by up to six years imprisonment, violations of local ordinances, and petty crimes like theft, trespassing, malicious mischief, slander, and simple assault. They also deal with everyday community issues such as traffic violations, curfew breaches, and illegal fishing in municipal waters.
While their decisions are binding, they are not final, as appeals can be elevated to the Regional Trial Courts (RTCs).