3-3 State Court Systems Goals: Compare the structure of a typical state court system with the structure of the federal courts Explain the jurisdictions of the specialized courts in a typical state system Chapter 3

A TYPICAL STATE COURT SYSTEM Chapter 3

Indiana’s Court System Chapter 3

State Trial Courts Circuit Courts Those courts with jurisdiction over both criminal and civil matters Could be called by other names in other states. Courts of Record: keeps an exact account of what goes on at trial. Will make determinations of the facts of the case either through the use of a jury or, if the parties choose not to use a jury, the judge will determine the facts. Chapter 3

State Court of Appeals Accepts appeals of cases from the court of record (circuit courts) NO NEW EVIDENCE!!!! Chapter 3

Indiana Supreme Court Only cases that involve the most vital and complex legal issues will be heard at the Supreme Court. Chapter 3

CHECKPOINT    What does a typical state court system have in common with the federal court system? Chapter 3

STATE COURTS WITH SPECIALIZED JURISDICTIONS Associate circuit courts City or municipal courts Small claims courts Juvenile courts Probate courts Chapter 3

CHECKPOINT    Name the typical state courts that have specialized jurisdiction. Chapter 3

PREVENT LEGAL DIFFICULTIES Be prepared . . . To avoid expensive litigation should a dispute develop, when you enter a contract include a provision requiring the use of a mediator or an arbitrator. To be sure of the rules and costs of any litigation that might develop under a legal document you sign, specify the jurisdiction in which such disputes must be resolved. Continued on the next slide Chapter 3

PREVENT LEGAL DIFFICULTIES Know the facts about your state’s juvenile court system especially with respect to ages, rights, and sentencing options. Have your parents see an attorney to make out a will and utilize other methods to avoid the expenses of probate. Chapter 3