Understanding the Courts
The Dual Court System
The United States has a dual court system, which means there are two separate court systems: federal and state. Each system has its own jurisdiction—the authority to hear certain types of cases. Most citizens are more likely to interact with the state court system.
Key Roles in the Courtroom
Federal Courts
Federal courts have limited jurisdiction and primarily hear cases involving federal law, the U.S. Constitution, or disputes between states. The system is structured in three main tiers:
- 1. U.S. District Courts: These are the trial courts of the federal system where cases are tried, evidence is presented, and decisions are made. There are 94 federal judicial districts.
- 2. U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeals: If a party is unhappy with a District Court's decision, they can appeal to the appropriate Circuit Court. There are 13 Courts of Appeals. These courts review the trial record for errors of law.
- 3. U.S. Supreme Court: This is the highest court in the federal system. It has final appellate jurisdiction over all federal court cases and state court cases involving issues of federal law.
State Courts
State courts have broad jurisdiction and handle the vast majority of legal disputes in the U.S. Each state has its own unique structure, but it generally mirrors the federal system:
- 1. Trial Courts: Often called Superior Courts, District Courts, or Circuit Courts. They have general jurisdiction and are the first to hear most criminal and civil cases. Some states also have specialized courts (e.g., family court, traffic court).
- 2. Intermediate Appellate Courts: Similar to federal Circuit Courts, these courts (often called the Court of Appeals) review decisions from the trial courts for legal errors.
- 3. State Supreme Court: The highest court in the state judicial system. Its decisions on state law are final.
The Structure of the Federal Courts
U.S. Supreme Court
The highest court in the nation, located in Washington, D.C. It consists of nine justices and has final appellate jurisdiction over all federal and state court cases involving issues of U.S. constitutional or federal law. The Supreme Court chooses to hear a very small percentage of the cases it is asked to review each year.
U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeals
These are the intermediate appellate courts. The 94 federal judicial districts are organized into 12 regional circuits, each of which has a court of appeals. A party who is unsuccessful in district court may appeal to the circuit court for their region. These courts review the trial record for significant legal errors, but do not hear new evidence.
U.S. District Courts
These are the trial courts of the federal system. This is where federal cases are initially filed, tried, and decided. There are 94 federal judicial districts, including at least one district in each state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. This is where evidence is presented and witnesses testify.
Types of Cases & Trials
Civil vs. Criminal Cases
Civil cases typically involve disputes between individuals or organizations over money or property (e.g., contract disputes, personal injury). The plaintiff seeks a remedy, such as financial compensation. The burden of proof is "preponderance of the evidence." Criminal cases are brought by the government against an individual accused of committing a crime. The goal is to determine guilt and impose punishment, like a fine or imprisonment. The burden of proof is much higher: "beyond a reasonable doubt."
Jury vs. Bench Trials
A Jury Trial is where a group of citizens (the jury) listens to the evidence and decides the facts of the case, delivering a verdict of guilty or not guilty (or liable/not liable in a civil case).
A Bench Trial takes place without a jury. The judge alone hears the evidence, decides the facts, and makes the final ruling on the case. Bench trials are often quicker and may be preferred for complex legal or technical cases.
Key Roles in the Courtroom
Judge
An impartial officer who presides over the trial, rules on motions, and ensures legal procedures are followed. In a bench trial, the judge also decides the outcome.
Jury
A group of citizens who hear the evidence and arguments in a case and deliver a verdict. Not all cases have a jury.
Plaintiff / Prosecutor
The party who brings the case. In a civil case, this is the plaintiff. In a criminal case, this is the government prosecutor.
Defendant
The party being sued (in a civil case) or accused of a crime (in a criminal case).
Lawyers / Attorneys
Professionals who represent the plaintiff and defendant, presenting evidence and making legal arguments on their behalf.
Court Clerk
An administrative officer of the court who handles records, files paperwork, and manages the court schedule.
The Stages of a Trial
Jury Selection (Voir Dire)
Lawyers for both sides question potential jurors to select a fair and impartial jury.
Opening Statements
Each side gives an overview of the case and what they intend to prove.
Presentation of Evidence
The prosecutor/plaintiff presents their case, followed by the defendant. This involves witness testimony and physical evidence.
Closing Arguments
Lawyers summarize their cases and argue why the judge or jury should rule in their favor.
Jury Deliberation and Verdict
The jury discusses the case in private to reach a decision (verdict). In a bench trial, the judge makes the decision.
Sentencing / Judgment
If the defendant is found guilty in a criminal case, the judge determines the sentence. In a civil case, the judge issues a final judgment.
The Appeals Process
If a party believes there was a serious legal error made during the trial that affected the outcome, they can file an appeal. An appeal is not a new trial. The appellate court does not hear new evidence or re-weigh the facts. Instead, a panel of judges reviews the trial court's record to determine if a significant legal mistake was made.
Affirm
The appellate court agrees with the lower court's decision, and the original verdict stands.
Reverse
The appellate court disagrees with the lower court's decision and overturns the verdict.
Remand
The appellate court sends the case back to the lower court for a new trial or further action to correct the error.
Affirm
The appellate court agrees with the lower court's decision, and the original verdict stands.
Reverse
The appellate court disagrees with the lower court's decision and overturns the verdict.
Remand
The appellate court sends the case back to the lower court for a new trial or further action to correct the error.