The U.S. court system is triangular with many trial courts at the bottom, fewer appeals courts in the middle, and a supreme court at the top at both the federal and state levels. Trial courts determine facts and apply the law, while appellate courts review trials for legal errors. The U.S. Supreme Court mainly hears appeals involving constitutional issues or disagreements between circuit courts. Specialized courts exist at both federal and state levels to handle specific areas like bankruptcy, tax, or juvenile cases. Jurisdiction and venue determine where a case can be properly filed and heard.