Crash Course Government and Politics: The U.S. Court System

Introduction

• Hosted by Craig at Crash Course.
• Hierarchical system, both in Crash Course and U.S. courts.

Structure of the American Court System

• The American court system is hierarchical.

Trial Courts

• State Courts:
  • 50 states each with its own court system.
  • Most cases start and are settled here.
• Federal Courts (U.S. District Courts):
  • 94 district courts with 663 judges.
  • Some civil cases can start in federal court if criteria are met.
  • Almost all criminal cases start in state courts.

Appeals

• State Courts:
  • Two levels of appellate courts.
• Federal Courts (Circuit Courts):
  • 12 regional circuit courts.
  • Appeals usually heard by panels of three judges.
• Appeals can be made on procedural grounds or law application issues.

Original Jurisdiction of Federal Courts

• Four scenarios for original jurisdiction in federal courts:
  1. Cases involving federal laws (e.g., Obamacare claims).
  2. Cases involving treaties.
  3. Cases involving the U.S. Constitution (e.g., freedom of religion).
  4. Cases where the U.S. government is a party.
• Cases between parties from different states with over $70,000 at issue.

Supreme Court

• Appellate Jurisdiction:
  • Final court of appeals; exercises judicial review.
  • Most cases reach here on appeal.
  • Must raise a federal question (due process, equal protection).
• Original Jurisdiction:
  • Cases between U.S. and a state, two or more states, foreign ministers/ambassadors, citizens from different states or a foreign country.
  • High sea crimes (e.g., piracy).

Decision Rules and Case Selection

• Criteria for Case Selection:
  • Case or controversy requirement.
  • Standing: substantial stake or injury.
  • Mootness: cases no longer needing resolution.
  • Ripeness: potential injury yet to occur.
  • Political question doctrine: prefer executive/legislative resolution.
  • Circuit splits or federal government appeals often get heard.
  • Constitutional questions related to freedom of speech/religion.

Conclusion

• Overview of the court system structure and case progression to the Supreme Court.
• Upcoming episodes to discuss Supreme Court case processes.

Credits:

• Produced in association with PBS Digital Studios.
• Supported by Voqal, promoting social equity through technology and media.
• Learn more at voqal.org.

• Note: Next episode to cover what happens when a case reaches the Supreme Court.