Chapter Overview: Ready to Learn?
The United States system of justice has two major parts—the federal system and the state court systems. There are two major types of trials—civil and criminal. The government brings criminal cases for offenses committed against the general public. Individuals initiate civil cases. People have begun using alternatives to litigation because lawsuits are becoming so expensive. In this chapter, you will learn how the legal system works and the alternatives available when handling disputes.

Legal Web Links: Need to Know More?
Surf the Internet for legal Web links.

http://www.uscourts.gov/
The Web site for the Federal Judiciary.

http://www.supremecourtus.gov/
The Web site for the U.S. Supreme Court.

Real Cases: Did You Get It?
Apply the chapter material to real cases.

Self-Check Quizzes: Test Tomorrow?
Test your knowledge of chapter material with a self-check quiz.

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