United States Courts Quiz

The United States court system is divided into two main parts:

• Civil and Criminal Courts

• Federal and State Courts

• Trial and Appellate Courts

The highest court in the United States is the:

• District Court

• Court of Appeals

• Supreme Court

District Courts are the courts where:

• Laws are passed

• Trials are held for the first time

• Appeals are heard

Courts of Appeals review decisions made by:

• Supreme Courts

• District Courts

• State Courts

Federal courts primarily handle cases that involve:

• Traffic violations

• Matters of state law

• Federal law and the Constitution

State courts handle the majority of lawsuits in the United States, including cases involving:

• Federal crimes

• Contract disputes

• Challenges to federal laws

Trials in federal courts are presided over by:

• Elected judges

• Appointed judges

• A jury of citizens

Juries in federal courts are typically made up of:

• Legal professionals

• 12 citizens

• The judge and two lawyers

The burden of proof in a civil case lies with the:

• Defendant

• Plaintiff

• Judge

In a criminal case, the prosecution must prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This means:

• The evidence must be convincing.

• There should be no doubt whatsoever.

• The defense must not be able to provide an alibi.