2: The United States Court System

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Learning Objectives

Understand the US court system and how it affects the conduct of businesses.
Understand the three branches of government and how they check and balance each other’s powers.
Explore the state and federal court systems.

2.1: Introduction
This page outlines the interconnectivity of the US legal and government system, emphasizing the role of the Constitution and the collaboration between branches in lawmaking and enforcement. It highlights how most laws come from Congress and state legislatures, with courts applying these laws. Companies face legal requirements and risks of litigation, influenced by the Citizens United decision and lobbying efforts.
2.2: Separation of Powers
This page explains the US Constitution's separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Congress makes laws, the president enforces them, and the judiciary interprets them. It highlights judicial review from Marbury v. Madison, allowing the Supreme Court to declare actions unconstitutional. Additionally, checks and balances are emphasized, ensuring each branch can limit the powers of the others to prevent authoritarian rule and uphold constitutional integrity.
2.3: Federalism
This page describes the United States' fifty-six legal systems arising from its federal structure, where states, the federal government, and territories each have distinct jurisdictions. The federal government has limited powers focused on constitutional issues, while state courts manage most civil and criminal matters. Jurisdiction determines the court venue, with diversity jurisdiction allowing federal court hearings for cases between parties from different states if claims exceed $75,000.
2.4: Trial and Appellate Courts
This page outlines the U.S. court system, which consists of a hierarchy of trial and appellate courts. Trial courts, like US District Courts and state courts, handle evidence in civil and criminal cases, while appellate courts review decisions for legal errors without new trials. The US District Courts operate in ninety-four districts, and cases can be appealed to the US Supreme Court, particularly those concerning federal constitutional rights.
2.5: Concluding Thoughts
This page outlines the structure of the US government, highlighting the separation of powers among the three branches: Executive, Legislative, and Judicial. It emphasizes the role of judicial review, established by Marbury v. Madison, which allows courts to validate laws and interpret the Constitution. Despite being unelected, the Judicial branch is accountable to the President and Congress.

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