The first two levels are trial courts, where most cases start. The State Court of Appeals hears appeals from the state trial courts. The State Supreme Court hears appeals from the Court of appeals. Both federal and state court systems also have certain specialized courts. For example, the federal system has bankruptcy and tax courts.
Many states have traffic, family, probate or small claims courts.
Many people choose to take their complaints to small claims courts because they are able to represent themselves and avoid lawyers, fees. The location of the small claims court can be found in the government listings of your local telephone directory. Complete the complaint form, stating the name of the party you are suing, the nature of your complaint and the amount of money you are requesting. Often in small claims court, the complaint is combined with the summons into one document, which is served on the person you are suing. This document will also tell you when and where to appear.