Types of Courts
What type of court hears cases for the first time?
Trial Court
How many levels are in the federal court system?
Three
Most legal disputes begin in what type of court?
State Trial Court
What document starts a lawsuit?
Complaint
Who decides facts in a jury trial?
Jury
What court reviews decisions made by lower courts?
Appellate Court
What are the federal trial courts called?
District Courts
State courts hear cases involving what type of law?
State Law
What is the defendant's written response called?
answer
Who presides over a trial?
Judge
What is the highest court in the United States?
Supreme Court
What courts hear appeals from district courts?
Circuit Courts of Appeals
What is the highest court in most states called?
State Supreme Court
What process allows parties to gather evidence before trial?
Discovery
What is an agreement reached before trial called?
Settlement
What court handles bankruptcy cases?
Federal Bankruptcy Court
Federal judges are appointed by whom?
The President
State courts generally handle what percentage of cases in the U.S.?
Most Cases
What is a sworn statement made before trial called?
Deposition
What occurs after a trial if a party challenges the decision?
Appeal
What court has jurisdiction over disputes between states?
U.S. Supreme Court
Federal judges serve for how long?
Life
Which court system handles family law matters?
State Courts
What is the burden of proof in most civil cases?
Preponderance of the Evidence
What alternative dispute resolution method uses a neutral third party to help parties reach an agreement?
Mediation