Legal Definitions - United States district courts

The United States district courts are the trial courts of the federal court system. These courts have the power to hear almost all types of federal cases, including civil and criminal matters. There are 94 federal judicial districts, with at least one district in each state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Additionally, the Virgin Islands, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands have district courts that hear federal cases, including bankruptcy cases.

• A person is charged with a federal crime, such as drug trafficking or tax evasion. The case would be heard in a United States district court.
• A company is being sued for violating federal antitrust laws. The case would be heard in a United States district court.
• A person files for bankruptcy under federal law. The case would be heard in a United States district court.

These examples illustrate how United States district courts have jurisdiction over a wide range of federal cases, including criminal, civil, and bankruptcy matters. The district courts are the first level of the federal court system, where cases are initially heard and decided upon.