1. 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

2. A TYPICAL STATE COURT SYSTEM
Chapter 3

3. Indiana’s Court System
Chapter 3

4. 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

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

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

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

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

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

10. 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

11. 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