Since the mid-'80s, number of prisoners in state and federal prisons increased 80 percent. Courts are overwhelmed. Many settled out of court. Legal process begins with the arraignment of the accused, concludes with dismissal, not-guilty verdict or sentencing after a conviction. Two judicial systems, state and federal.
Federal courts have power over only matters established by the Constitution.
Crimes that cross state lines. City, state courts cover everything else. City, county, state laws. Most laws statewide. Basic trial court to try civil cases and felonies.