Understanding Federal Courts: a Beginner’s Guide

Federal courts play a crucial role in the United States judicial system. They handle cases involving federal laws, disputes between states, and cases involving the U.S. government. This guide provides an overview of how federal courts operate and their significance.

Structure of Federal Courts

The federal court system is divided into three main levels: district courts, appellate courts, and the Supreme Court. Each level has specific functions and jurisdiction.

District Courts

District courts are the trial courts of the federal system. They are responsible for hearing cases for the first time, including civil and criminal cases. There are 94 district courts across the United States.

Appellate Courts

Appellate courts review decisions made by district courts. They do not hold trials but examine whether the law was applied correctly. The U.S. Courts of Appeals are divided into 13 circuits.

The Supreme Court

The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States. It reviews cases from lower courts that involve significant legal questions. The Court has nine justices who make final decisions on cases.

  • Federal laws
  • Disputes between states
  • Cases involving the U.S. government
  • Constitutional issues