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Federal Court System

Definition

The Federal Court System is the judiciary of the United States, responsible for interpreting and applying federal laws. It consists of three levels: district courts (trial court), circuit courts (appellate court), and the Supreme Court.

Analogy

Think of the Federal Court System like a sports tournament. District courts are like the first round where all teams play. Circuit courts are like semi-finals where only winners from previous rounds compete. The Supreme Court is like the final match, where only significant or controversial cases reach.

Related terms

District Courts: These are general trial courts in the U.S federal system where both civil and criminal cases are filed.

Circuit Courts: Also known as appellate courts, they review decisions made by district courts if one party decides to appeal.

Judicial Review: This is a process under which executive or legislative actions are subject to review by the judiciary to ensure their constitutionality.