In the southern colonies, how was government typically administered at the county level?

The choice indicating that government in the southern colonies was typically administered at the county level by law-enforcing sheriffs is correct because the structure of local government in these regions heavily relied on a system of county governance. In the southern colonies, larger landholdings and a rural population meant that counties were the primary jurisdiction for local administration. Sheriffs, elected or appointed, held significant authority and were responsible for law enforcement, tax collection, and the administration of justice.

The role of sheriffs was vital in managing the affairs of the counties, particularly in areas where towns were sparse and communities were spread out. This system contrasted with more urbanized colonies, where town councils played a more pronounced role in governance. Additionally, while elected officials at various levels did exist, their influence was limited compared to the prominence of the sheriff in county matters. State legislatures were primarily concerned with broader legislation instead of localized governance in the southern context, further underscoring the pivotal role of sheriffs in maintaining order and implementing laws at the county level.