The Structure of American Law: The Courts

Abstract This chapter discusses the American court system. It begins by laying out the basic structure of federal and state court systems. Next, the work of the courts is examined, including the kinds of cases in federal and state courts, basic trial court procedure, actions in equity, the settlement process, and the work of appellate courts. The adversary system of common-law regimes is contrasted with the inquisitorial system of civil-law countries. Finally, this chapter examines the business of the courts, including the numbers and kinds of cases in federal and state courts and the changes that have occurred over the last century.