Court Systems in the United States

Flashcards covering the court systems in the United States, including federal and state courts and their specific functions.

U.S. Supreme Court

Hears appeals from federal and state courts; has original jurisdiction in cases involving a state or American ambassadors.

Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit

Hears cases on appeal from the U.S. Claims Court and the Court of International Trade, and certain appeals from U.S. district courts.

U.S. Courts of Appeals

Hear cases on appeal from district courts and certain other federal courts.

U.S. District Courts

Hear criminal and civil cases.

U.S. Claims Court

Hears cases from citizens involving claims against the federal government.

U.S. Court of International Trade

Hears civil cases concerning tariffs and import taxes.

U.S. Tax Court

Hears cases dealing with tax laws.

State Supreme Courts

Hear appeals from lower state courts; have original jurisdiction in cases involving the state.

Appellate Courts

Hear cases on appeal from general trial courts and local courts.

Trial Courts

District, county, circuit, common pleas, or superior courts; hear major criminal and civil cases.

Lower Courts

Justice of the peace, magistrate's, and municipal courts; hear misdemeanors and small civil cases.

Court of Military Appeals

Hears appeals of courts-martial.