The Federal system in chapter 12 handles a small amount of trials State Courts Most legal matters such as robberies, assaults, illegal drugs, broken contracts are the responsibilities of the state courts.

Each year state and local courts handle millions of cases. Misdemeanors- less serious crimes such as speeding, illegal parking, dog running loose.

In rural areas and small towns the local court is called justice court. The Judge is called justice of the peace.

In larger towns and small cities the courts are called police courts or magistrate courts. They handle traffic violations or disturbing the peace.

Felonies- are serious Crimes Murder Assault Burglary Fraud

Fraud- In the broadest sense, a fraud is an intentional deception made for personal gain or to damage another individual deception

General Courts handle serious crimes. Murder

General Courts handle serious crimes. robbery

General Courts handle serious crimes. Arson

Appellate Courts The decision in the general is sometimes appealed to the appellate court. The basis for the appeal is that in the general court the defendant’s Constitutional rights were violated.

Appellate Courts An appellate court has no jury. A panel of judges reviews the lower courts rulings.

Appellate Courts If the judges feel the defendant did not have a fair trial they can overturn the decision.

Plea Bargain- a defendant agrees to plead guilty for a reduced sentence.