Highest court in the federal courts. Has 9 Justices, no jury; appellate jurisdiction; limited original jurisdiction

Judges, no jury; appellate jurisdiction only. Hears cases previously ruled on by lower courts.

Judge, with or without jury; original jurisdiction

Established the principle of judicial review at the national level.

The Supreme Court of the United States determines the constitutionality of laws and acts of the executive branch of government.

In this type of case, a court determines whether a person accused of breaking the law is guilty or not guilty of a misdemeanor or a felony.

This is checked several times throughout a criminal court case in order to make sure that it is likely that a person has committed a crime.

Set amount of money an individual who has been arrested has to pay to be released from jail prior to trial.

The constitutional protection against unfair governmental actions and laws

Criminal court procedure where probable cause is reviewed, attorney may be provided and the defendant enters a plea.

A court, using a judge or jury, settles a disagreement between two parties to recover damages or receive compensation.

Person or party filing a complaint

The person or group receiving the lawsuit or charges

Request to have higher court review a case heard in a lower court.

Guarantees due process to avoid unfair treatment in the legal system at the federal/national level.

Guarantees due process to avoid unfair treatment in the legal system at the state and local level.

Formal statement by defendant declaring guilt or innocence.

The authority for a court to hear a case for the first time. The U.S. District Courts have this authority.

The authority for a court to review cases previously ruled on in lower courts. The U.S. Court of Appeals has this authority.

A serious crime (often violent) with a penalty of more than a year in prison.

A less serious crime with a penalty of less than a year in jail.