Final answer:
The U.S. federal court system is structured into three tiers: the district courts, circuit courts of appeals, and the Supreme Court, each with specific responsibilities. The district courts serve as trial courts, appellate courts review district court decisions, and the Supreme Court has the final say in interpreting the Constitution, with the power to set precedent. Restrictions on judicial power are maintained by precedent, internal regulation, and checks from other branches.
Step-by-step explanation:
Three Tiers of the Federal Court System
The U.S. federal court system is composed of three main levels: the district courts, the circuit courts of appeals, and the Supreme Court. Each tier has its own responsibilities and limitations.
U.S. District Courts
The district courts function as the trial courts where federal cases typically begin. They handle a wide range of cases, including those pertaining to federal questions and matters of federal law. Their rulings are subject to appeal to the higher courts.
U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeals
These intermediate appellate courts review cases appealed from the district courts. They assess whether the law was applied correctly in the trial court but generally do not review factual determinations unless there is a clear error. Their jurisdiction is regional, and their decisions are binding on the lower courts within their circuit.
U.S. Supreme Court
At the apex of the federal court system, the Supreme Court reviews cases of significant legal consequence. It has the authority to interpret the Constitution and acts as the final court of appeals. Its rulings set precedents that are binding on all other courts, although it hears only a small percentage of the cases petitioned to it each year.
Limitations on the federal courts, including the Supreme Court, involve precedents, internal regulatory limitations, and external checks from the other branches of government. Despite their significant authority, federal courts cannot seek out cases to rule on—they must wait for cases to be brought before them.