Which court handles minor criminal offenses and civil cases involving $15,000 or less?

Florida County Courts are the appropriate jurisdiction for handling minor criminal offenses and civil cases where the amount in controversy is $15,000 or less. This court is specifically designed to manage such cases, including misdemeanor offenses, traffic violations, and small claims disputes.

Circuit Courts, which are a higher level in the hierarchy, generally handle more serious criminal and civil cases, including those involving larger amounts of damages. The Florida District Courts of Appeal are focused on reviewing decisions made by lower courts and are not involved in trying cases. The Florida Supreme Court serves as the highest appellate court in the state, primarily dealing with significant legal issues and cases that involve constitutional questions or conflicts within the law.

Thus, the designation of Florida County Courts as the responsible entity for less severe criminal and civil matters makes them the correct answer.