However, the overwhelmed courts can handle only the most serious offenders.

Many people, she said, are waiting to see how the courts handle the first cases, particularly those with complicated property questions.

The court also handles electoral disputes and the trial of the president.

Lawyers said the variations may in part have to do with the cases particular courts are handling.

Yet among their 2.2 million cases, the courts handle more than 300,000 criminal matters a year.

The courts also handle money - more than $200 million a year in fines and fees.

Their own courts would handle the case, officials said.

Without even calling on the state for an explanation, the majority said the courts couldn't handle such claims.

But he also admits that the issues are more complex than any court of inquiry could handle.

How the courts handle this legal assault on China's plans will tell much about the future of the law here, lawyers say.