
State court systems
State court systems in the United States are responsible for handling a wide range of legal cases, including civil disputes and criminal cases. They operate independently of federal courts and vary by state. Typically, the system consists of trial courts, which hear cases initially, and appellate courts, which review decisions made by trial courts for errors. Each state has its own laws and procedures, but they generally ensure justice at the state level by resolving local legal issues, protecting rights, and upholding the law in accordance with the state constitution.