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federal judiciary

The branch of the federal government that interprets the laws of the nation.

Supreme Court

The highest level of the federal judiciary, which was established in article III of the constitution and serves as the highest court in the nation.

original jurisdiction

The authority of a court to act as the first court to hear a case, which includes the finding of facts in the case.

appellate jurisdiction

The authority of a court to hear and review decisions made by lower courts in that system.

Federalist no. 78

Argument by Alexander Hamilton that the federal judiciary would be unlikely to infringe upon rights and liberties but would serve as a check on the other two branches.

Marbury v. Madison (1803)

A Supreme Court decision that established judicial review over federal laws.

judicial review

The authority of the Supreme Court to strike down a law or executive action if it conflicts with the Constitution.

criminal law

A category of law covering actions determined to harm the community.

civil law

A category of law covering cases involving private rights and relationships between individuals and groups.

federal district courts

The lowest level of the federal judiciary; these courts usually have original jurisdiction in cases that start at the federal level.