How Courts Work

en español>

Courts are part of the judicial branch of government – the “third branch,” as it is called. (The “legislative branch” is the State’s law-making authority, the “executive branch” executes the laws enacted by the legislature, and the “judicial branch” interprets the laws in specific cases.)

The courts were set up to provide for the orderly settlement of disputes between two sides in a controversy, determine the guilt or innocence of those accused of violating laws, and protect the rights of individuals.

If you are involved in a court case, it may help you to understand how courts work in a general way. If you are interested, click on a link that goes to the information that you would like to know.