The Federal Court System
Ryleigh Burnette
District Courts
District courts are were trials are heard and lawsuits are begun. They have the original jurisdiction and are the only federal courts that have witnesses and juries.
Court of Appeals
Courts of Appeals, also known as circuit courts, have appellate jurisdiction meaning that they review decisions made by the lower courts (the district courts) and decide if the defendants received a fair trial or if they should examine new evidence. If it is decided that the trial was unfair the case will be remanded. One of the three judges will write down an opinion explaining why the judges made this decision. This opinion with be used to set precedents for later cases that are similar to the one being tried.
Federal judges get Life Terms
U.S. Marshal
The U.S. Marshal can make arrests, collect fines, and transport federal suspects. On top of that, they have the authority to serve subpoenas, keep order in the courts, and provide protection for jurors.
U.S. Attorney
The U.S. Attorneys are the government lawyers who prosecute the suspects that are accused of federal crimes. They serve a 4-year term and are approved by the Senat after being appointed by the President.
Magistrate Judge
Magistrates have the authority to issue arrests and search warrants. They hear preliminary evidence, minor cases, and decide if the suspect is issued bail.