Structure of the Law

As you have learned this week, the judicial system in the United States is composed of both federal and state courts. For example, if you stole a TV from Wal-Mart, you would be tried in state court for the crime. However, if you robbed a bank, you could be tried in federal court.

Do you think we need both federal and state courts? What is the difference between the two? What determines if a case is heard in federal court as opposed to state court? Give an example of a civil or criminal case that would be heard in federal and state courts.