They exist, though I am only vaguely aware of what they do.
Annulments come easily to mind. Less easy to remember is an ongoing case in South Texas where the Diocese fired church workers after they formed a union. The workers first appealed through the Church courts. Now, while the case is on further appeal in Rome, I believe they have also filed a lawsuit in Federal Court.
My vague memory tells me these church courts operate in grey areas where civil and criminal law allows them to mediate issues between church members.
It does not take the place of civil court. That is what the Muslims seem to want. I also believe that should not be allowed.
I agree, completely.
> Annulments come easily to mind.
This is really no different from what I said. This is totally independent of what the civil courts do or don't do. It has no effect on what the civil courts do or don't do. I have no problem with that. I also don't have a problem if you call that "counseling" or a "court". You can call it anything as long as it does not replace civil courts. The problem I have is when they want to replace civil courts with their own religious courts.