The U.S. federal court system enforces federal laws and regulations, by applying and interpreting the Constitution of the United States, profoundly influencing public policy, and resolving important conflicts for any citizen across the country. The federal courts derive their power directly from Article III of the U.S. Constitution, and this power extends across the entire nation and the states. Article III states in part that “judicial power shall extend to all cases, in law and equity, arising under this Constitution, the laws of the United States, and treaties made, or which shall be made, under their authority.” page 3.

About 1 million cases are filed annually within the federal courts, and although a seemingly high number, the federal courts’ authority is significantly limited compared to state ...