The Two Court Systems in the United States

Federal Court System

Created by the U.S. Constitution; hears federal law cases (Constitution, statutes, treaties). Three levels:

1. District Courts (94): Trial courts for civil/criminal cases.
2. Courts of Appeals (13): Intermediate appellate courts.
3. Supreme Court: Highest court; hears appeals from Courts of Appeals and certain state cases; original jurisdiction over ambassador and interstate cases.

State Court System

Created by state constitutions; hears state law cases. Two levels:

1. Trial Courts: Various types (circuit, district, superior) – first hearing of cases.
2. Appellate Courts: Intermediate appeals (courts of appeals, supreme courts, appellate divisions).