What is the lowest level of the federal court system?

The lowest level of the federal court system is the District Court. District Courts serve as the primary trial courts in the federal judiciary, where cases are initially filed and heard. They have jurisdiction over both civil and criminal cases that fall under federal law. Each state has at least one District Court, and larger states may have several, each covering different regions.

The role of the District Court is crucial, as it is where the evidence is presented, witnesses are heard, and determinations regarding the facts of a case are made. Decisions made by District Courts can be appealed to the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which is a higher level in the federal system. Understanding this hierarchy is essential for comprehending how the federal judiciary operates, beginning with the District Court as the foundational level where legal proceedings are initiated.