Overview of the United States Court System

Why is it important to understand the court system?

If you wanted to go to court, should you go to a federal court or a state court? A district court or a small claim court? Many people feel confused about how the court system works when they want to sue someone or when they are involved in a lawsuit. Therefore, it is imperative that we understand how the court system works.

However, understanding the court system can be quite difficult. In the United States, for example, each court system has its own legal procedures and laws that impact not only how a case is addressed but also the final result. In other words, failing to understand the difference between the state and federal court system can considerably jeopardize a case.

What is the structure of the United States court system?

The United States court system is divided into the federal court system and the state court system, with each system having its own hierarchal structure. Generally, federal courts hear cases involving federal law, and state courts hear cases involving state law.

Courts in the United States are hierarchical. Actions typically begin in a trial court, and then go to an appellate court. Actions sometimes may also go to the supreme court.

Trial courts

• Actions normally start in a trial court.
• Trial courts make decisions based on the facts presented by the plaintiff and defendant.

Appellate courts

• Appellate courts review whether the decisions made by the trial courts are correct.
• Appellate courts reexamine specific aspects of the proceedings of the trial court.
• Appellate courts conduct examination by reviewing the evidence, documents and transcript of the testimony used in the trial court.

Supreme courts

• The supreme courts review whether the decisions made by the appellate courts are correct.
• The supreme courts have final ruling in a dispute.

To know more about the U.S. Court System, check out The U.S. Court System Explained.