Judicial Branch

Definition

The Judicial Branch is made up of many federal courts. District Courts are where cases are first heard. Courts of Appeals hear cases from District Courts that are challenged. Cases can be appealed again, and the Supreme Court can decide to hear. They can also hear cases that originate in state courts. The decisions in a case are based off of interpretations of laws and the Constitution. There are nine Supreme Court Justices and rulings need a simple majority.