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Federal vs. State Courts
Learn about the two main court systems for criminal cases in the United States.
State Courts
What they are
Each state has its own court system. Most criminal cases in the U.S. happen in state courts.
What kinds of cases they handle:
State courts handle cases where someone is accused of breaking a state law. These are the laws passed by the state government. Examples include:
- Theft (like shoplifting)
- Assault
- Most drug offenses
- Traffic violations (like speeding)
- Murder
Federal Courts
What they are
Federal courts are part of the United States government. They handle cases where someone is accused of breaking a law passed by the U.S. Congress.
What kinds of cases they handle:
Federal courts handle a smaller, more specific set of crimes. Examples include:
- Crimes that happen on federal property (like a military base or national park).
- Crimes that cross state lines (like kidnapping or drug trafficking between states).
- Bank robbery.
- Mail fraud.
- Crimes related to immigration.