Jurisdiction

Definition

The power or right to make judgments about the law, the power or right to govern an area, and an area within which a particular system of laws is used.

State Laws

Enacted by state legislatures, apply within the state’s boundaries, and cover a wide range of issues including criminal law, property law, family law, and business regulations.

Federal Laws

Enacted by congress, apply across the entire United States, and govern matters specified in the US Constitution including interstate commerce, immigration, bankruptcy, and federal crimes.

Legal Systems

State

Each state has its own constitution, laws, and courts which handle most criminal cases, civil disputes, family matters, and probate issues.

Federal

Governed by the US Constitution and courts handle cases involving federal laws, disputes between states, and cases involving the Constitution.

Law Enforcement Agencies

State

State police, local police departments, and state bureaus of investigation enforce state laws.

Federal

Federal agencies such as the FBI, DEA, ATF, and ICE enforce federal laws.