ABSTRACT
This chapter briefly examines the structure of the U.S. dual court system, comprised of federal and state courts. The structure of state courts varies among states although a general pattern has been identified consisting of courts of original instance (lower courts) and appellate courts (higher courts). In addition to federal and state courts, tribal and local (which are part of a unified state court system) courts also exist. Courts hear cases that range from family and property matters, bankruptcy, and tax matters, to civil rights issues and cases that involve social problems such as substance abuse and mental illness. Social workers are involved with local courts more than other types of courts. Social workers are most often involved with local courts pertaining to matters involving juveniles, crime victims, domestic violence, and child welfare. Social workers also interact with specialty courts to provide substance abuse or mental health treatment, and conduct mediation within mediation centers for court referred cases.
