American Courts

Designed to introduce students to the key features of the court system and help them comprehend the inherent complexities, American Courts presents a succinct, straightforward description of the complicated American judicial scene. The book sketches in understandable terms many of the complications stemming from the coexistence of multiple court systems applying various bodies of law. It describes judicial personnel, with special attention to judges and the concept of an independent judiciary, and the role of lawyers, underscoring the significance of an independent bar. Revised in response to reader comments, the new edition reflects the recent creation of new courts, as well as the increase in the volume of litigation and the number of judges. It also includes tables showing the courts in the 50 states with the number and terms of office of their judges, federal courts and the number of judges on each, and various state judicial structures.