Lesson 1 - Introduction to the Court System

Lesson 1 is intended to help students understand how the court system works and how the various courts work together to hear cases in Tennessee.


  • Describe the role of the judicial branch;
  • Explain the differences between civil and criminal cases;
  • Understand how judges make decisions;
  • Explain the appeals process; and

1. Introduction to the Tennessee Judicial System 

2. Introduction to the Court System

3. Faces of Justice

4. Student Handouts and Exercises

5. Additional Materials

  • High School Curriculum on the Judiciary from The American Judicature Society
  • iCivics