Chapter 9: The American Court System

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms from Chapter 9 of the lecture on the American court system.

What is a distinctive characteristic of the American court system?

It is a dual-court system comprised of state and federal courts.

What are the three tiers of most state court structures?

Trial courts of limited jurisdiction, trial courts of general jurisdiction, and appellate courts.

What do courts of limited jurisdiction hear?

Less serious cases.

What is the role of courts of general jurisdiction?

They can hear any case.

What are the components of the state appellate court system?

It includes intermediate appellate courts and the state supreme court.

What does it mean to appeal a court decision?

To request that a court with appellate jurisdiction review and potentially reverse the judgment or order of a lower court.

What does a trial de novo mean?

It refers to a new trial that occurs on appeal, rather than just a review of the record.

What established the federal court system in the United States?

The US Constitution, specifically Article 3, Section 1.