Outlines the three-tiered hierarchy of the federal judiciary, including District Courts, Circuit Courts of Appeals, and the Supreme Court, and explains the concepts of original and appellate jurisdiction.
They are the trial courts of the federal system. They have original jurisdiction, meaning this is where cases are first heard, evidence is presented, and decisions are made by a judge and/or jury. There are \(94\) federal judicial districts.
What is original jurisdiction?
The authority of a court to hear a case for the first time, as opposed to appellate jurisdiction, which is the authority to review a case already decided by a lower court.
What is the primary function of the U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeals?
To review the legal decisions and procedures of the District Courts within their geographic circuit. They do not hold new trials but instead rule on whether the law was applied correctly. There are \(13\) Circuit Courts.
What is appellate jurisdiction?
The authority of a court to review, amend, or overrule decisions of a lower court. The Circuit Courts and the Supreme Court have appellate jurisdiction.
How many justices currently serve on the U.S. Supreme Court?
There are nine justices: one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. This number is set by Congress and can be changed by law.
In what specific types of cases does the Supreme Court have original jurisdiction?
Its original jurisdiction is very limited and applies to cases outlined in the Constitution, primarily involving disputes between two or more states or cases involving ambassadors and other public ministers.
How do the vast majority of cases reach the Supreme Court?
Through its appellate jurisdiction. A party must file a petition for a writ of certiorari, asking the Court to review a decision from a U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals or a state supreme court.
What is the legal principle of *stare decisis*?
A Latin phrase meaning "to stand by things decided." It is the doctrine of following precedent, where current court decisions are guided by rulings made in previous, similar cases. It provides stability and predictability in the legal system.
What is the key difference between criminal law and civil law?
Criminal law involves the government prosecuting an individual for violating a specific statute (a crime). Civil law involves disputes between two private parties (individuals or organizations) over rights and responsibilities (e.g., contracts, torts).
Describe the three main levels of the federal court system in order from lowest to highest.
1. U.S. District Courts (trial courts)
2. U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeals (appellate courts)
3. U.S. Supreme Court (final court of appeal)
