GOVT: Federal Court System Overview

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Federal court system

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The judiciary branch of the United States government, responsible for interpreting laws and administering justice.

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Article III

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The section of the United States Constitution that establishes the judicial branch.

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Jurisdiction

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The authority of a court to hear and decide a case.

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Original jurisdiction

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The power of a court to hear a case for the first time.

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Appellate jurisdiction

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The authority of a court to review decisions made by lower courts.

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Exclusive jurisdiction

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When only one court has the power to hear a case.

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Concurrent jurisdiction

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When more than one court has the authority to hear a case.

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United States Supreme Court

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The highest court in the federal judiciary of the United States.

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Court of last resort

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The final court to which a legal case can be appealed.

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United States Court of Appeals

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Intermediate appellate courts in the federal system that review decisions of lower courts.