Federal Judiciary

Definition

The federal judiciary refers to one of three branches of government established by the United States Constitution. It includes all federal courts responsible for interpreting laws enacted by Congress and resolving disputes under federal law.

Related terms

Supreme Court: The highest court within the federal judiciary system that has ultimate authority over interpreting constitutional issues.

District Courts: Trial-level courts where most cases begin in the federal judicial system.

Appellate Courts (Circuit Courts): Intermediate-level courts that review decisions made by district courts.