Lower Court
A lower court is a court below a higher reviewing court in a judicial system. In the federal system, U.S. district courts generally hear cases first, and U.S. courts of appeals review many district-court decisions.
A lower court is a court below a higher reviewing court in a judicial system. In the federal system, U.S. district courts generally hear cases first, and U.S. courts of appeals review many district-court decisions.
Example: A federal district court enters judgment in a civil case; a party may appeal that judgment to the appropriate U.S. court of appeals if the law permits.
Common misconception: “Lower” means less important or less qualified. The term describes a court’s place in the judicial hierarchy, not the quality of its judges or the significance of its work.
Sources: https://www.uscourts.gov/about-federal-courts/court-role-and-structure; https://www.supremecourt.gov/about/courtatwork.aspx