The U.S. court system is made up of the Supreme Court and over 100 federal courts that apply the law to actual situations and resolve criminal and civil cases. Criminal cases involve determining guilt and punishment for breaking laws, while civil cases settle large disagreements over issues like contracts and constitutional rights. Judges apply the law impartially while juries decide facts and responsibility in a case. Appeals move cases through higher state and federal courts if the original decision is disputed.

1. Organization of U.S. Court System

10. State Supreme Courts State Appeals Courts State Trial Courts Cases involving state and local laws Special Federal Courts U.S. Court of Appeals U.S. District Courts Cases involving federal laws Cases involving a foreign diplomat or state government The United States Supreme Court