RLD - State Court Systems (Lesson)

Introduction

In this lesson, we will take a brief look at the state court systems function and purpose. State court systems are similar in structure to the federal court system. Each state has its own unique court system. However, the general structure of each state court system is the same in all states. There are particular elements of each state court system unique to each state. We will take a specific look at the structure of Georgia’s court system.

The State Legislature

The state legislature makes the laws for the state and its citizens to follow. The state executive branch enforces those laws in the courts of the state judicial branch. The state court systems are primarily made up of local trial courts, general trial courts, special courts, intermediate appellate courts, and a supreme court. Review the presentation below for more information about the courts that make up a state court system.

Comparing Federal and State Courts

Take a look at the presentation below to review a comparison of the federal and state court systems court structure, their selection of judges, and the types of cases heard.

Let's Review!

Take a moment to participate in the following activity to practice your understanding of the topics in this module.  Reach out to your instructor if you have any questions.

Final Thoughts

The federal court system plays an essential role in shaping judicial policy and practice. Although our federal court system is the most powerful court system in the United States, state courts do much of the work that keeps our judicial system operating.

Most legal issues are resolved in state trial courts, the state court system’s lowest tier. State courts are also the courts that citizens are most likely to have contact with in their day to day lives.

There are 50 state court systems, all of which are similar in structure. Most state court systems have local courts, general trial courts, special courts such as domestic relations, intermediate appellate courts, and a supreme court.

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