Final answer:
The second level of the courts, also known as appellate courts, are less dramatic than TV portrayals, with most noncriminal cases decided by judges, not juries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The second level of the courts, or appellate courts, are significantly different from what is typically depicted on television. Unlike the dramatic courtroom scenes in shows, most noncriminal cases are decided by judges without the presence of a jury. Areas such as traffic court and small claims court handle specific civil matters within the trial courts, which serve as the first level in state court systems.
Furthermore, the overall court experience is generally less dramatic and exciting than TV representations suggest. Most Americans will interact with the judicial system at some point, potentially as a witness, juror, or defendant. However, such experiences often lack the sensationalism of popular legal dramas.
Media coverage of the courts, especially the Supreme Court, focuses primarily on major decisions rather than the day-to-day operations, which receive little public attention. Courtroom dramas like NCIS sensationalize aspects of politics and government for entertainment purposes, differing vastly from the real-life workings of the judicial system.
Both state and federal court systems feature trial and appellate courts, with the U.S. Supreme Court at the apex. Federal courts operate on precedent to ensure consistency in interpreting the Constitution and laws. Although this structured approach is clear-cut, it evolves slowly, reflecting the diversity of the nation and the ongoing changes in society.