This resource provides a comprehensive overview of the American Court System, focusing on its structure, juristic functions, and relevant vocabulary. The resource begins with a warm-up section for activating prior knowledge about the court system and guiding students in reflecting on related concepts such as justice and jurisdiction. It elaborates on the three-tiered structure of the judicial system, which includes the Supreme Court, Appellate Courts, and Trial Courts, highlighting their roles and jurisdictions. Key vocabulary terms such as 'jurisdiction', 'appellate', 'constitutional', and 'precedent' are clearly defined, helping learners understand the language of the justice system. The document also includes discussions on the federal and state court systems, detailing the types of cases each handles and the interaction between them, exemplified by the case study of Maryland v. King, which traces a court case from local to federal levels. Additionally, it presents various scenarios for students to evaluate which court would likely address them, enriching their understanding through practical application. The exit ticket activity encourages students to synthesize their findings by comparing the powers of different court systems, ensuring a thorough grasp of the material covered.