A plain-English guide to the American court system — federal and state courts, who's who in the courtroom, your rights, and how cases move through the system.
The federal judiciary operates under Article III of the U.S. Constitution. It has a three-tier structure plus specialized courts.
Each state has its own court system. While structures vary, most follow a similar pattern with trial courts, appellate courts, and a court of last resort.
Understanding the key people you'll encounter in a courtroom and what their roles are.
Constitutional protections that safeguard every person in the American justice system.
Step-by-step guide showing how criminal and civil cases proceed from start to finish.
This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.