Table of Contents
The federal court system in the United States is designed to interpret and apply federal laws. It consists of multiple levels, each with specific roles and responsibilities. Understanding this structure helps clarify how cases move through the judicial process.
Levels of Federal Courts
The federal court system has three main levels: District Courts, Circuit Courts, and the Supreme Court. Each level serves a distinct function in the judicial process.
District Courts
District Courts are the trial courts of the federal system. They hear cases involving federal laws, disputes between states, and cases involving the U.S. government. There are 94 district courts across the country.
Circuit Courts
Also known as Courts of Appeals, Circuit Courts review decisions made by District Courts. They do not hold trials but evaluate whether the law was applied correctly. There are 13 Circuit Courts, each covering a specific geographic area.
The Supreme Court
The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States. It reviews cases from Circuit Courts and state supreme courts that involve significant constitutional questions. The Court has nine justices who serve lifetime appointments.
- District Courts
- Circuit Courts
- Supreme Court