Types of Courts of Law

The judicial branch of government is responsible for interpreting laws.  It consists of several different types of courts that hear cases at multiple levels and on various subjects.  With so many different courts of law serving different purposes, one must know which one to go to for their particular case.

Trial Court - Trial courts are courts that have the authority to hear cases that don't fall under the jurisdiction of another court.  Trial courts consist of a judge and a jury, as well as the parties in the case, any attorneys representing the parties, and any witnesses that may be called to testify. 

Family Court - If your case has to do with child support, child custody, visitation rights, restraining orders, or emancipation of minors, this is the court where your case would be filed.  In some jurisdictions, family courts are created by statutes dealing with matters devolved from a court of equitable jurisdiction, such as a superior court. In some states, family courts will hear divorce proceedings; however, this is not the case in all states.

Appellate Court - Rather than holding trials, appellate courts review the decisions of lower courts when one party believes that the lower court made an error in its ruling.  Decisions made by appellate courts can only be based on evidence heard in the original trial, not on new evidence. 

Probate Court - These courts hear cases having to do with wills and trusts and the distribution of the property of deceased people.

Small Claims Court - These courts hear cases having to do with small amounts of money; the limit depends on the individual state, but it can be anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000.