Are Federal Courts Different From State Courts? | INDIANAPOLIS CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER

Here in the United States of America, we have two separate types of court systems: state and federal. These two court systems are different in many ways; ways that might be important for you to know if you are currently facing misdemeanor or felony charges. Continue reading to learn how Federal court differs from state court, plus what you need to do if you are preparing to go to trial for your Indiana criminal charges.

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Federal Court Versus State Court

Federal court and state court are established quite differently. State and local court systems are established by the state. This may include cities, townships, counties, and municipalities. Federal courts were, and continue to be, established under the United States Constitution. They deal with laws that are passed by Congress and debates related to the Constitution.

Court Jurisdiction

State and federal court do not hear the same types of cases; more specifically, they are limited to which kinds of cases they are authorized to adjudicate. State courts are authorized to hear virtually all cases, except those that pertain to crimes against the United States and cases that involve certain Federal laws, such as felony offenses, Bankruptcy, immigration, copyrighting, and maritime law. These kinds of cases are heard in Federal court. Common cases heard by state and local courts include misdemeanor crimes, traffic violations, civil disputes, and similar lower-level legal matters.

Although state and Federal courts hear different types of cases, there are some cases in which both are authorized to hear. In such cases, the party has the discretion of choosing which court they wish to pursue their legal matters in.

Facing Criminal Charges?

If you are facing misdemeanor criminal charges, you are going to be tried in a local court under state law. Examples of common misdemeanor offenses adjudicated in the local court system include traffic violations, drug possession, public intoxication, drunk driving, and shoplifting. If you are facing felony charges, you will likely be tried in Federal court under Federal law. Examples of federal-level offenses include white collar crimes, trafficking, sex crimes, violent crimes, kidnapping, homicide, and terrorism.

Are you looking for a skilled criminal defense lawyer who can fight your Indiana or Federal criminal charges? Contact the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a meeting with our experienced Indianapolis criminal defense law firm. We can hold meetings over the phone or in person at our Indy-based office.