The Judicial Branch

The Judicial Branch is composed of a hierarchical system of federal courts established by Congress. At its top sits the U.S. Supreme Court, consisting of nine justices who serve as the final authority on constitutional and federal legal questions. Below it are 12 regional Courts of Appeals and the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, which review decisions from lower courts and federal agencies. At the base are 94 District Courts, which serve as the primary trial courts for federal cases. Additional units—such as Bankruptcy Courts and Magistrate Judges—support the system by handling specialized matters and assisting with caseloads. This structure ensures consistent application of federal law across the nation and provides a mechanism for resolving disputes fairly and efficiently.