Learn About the Federal Judiciary


The U.S. Courts were created under Article III of the Constitution to administer justice fairly and impartially, within the jurisdiction established by the Constitution and Congress. Explore these resources to learn about different parts of the Federal Judiciary. See our For Teachers page for distance learning and classroom resources and activities.


  • Watch: Judicial Independence (NC Bar Assoc)
  • Watch: Civics Break - watch or facilitate a civics course that examines the rule of law, how courts fit into the American democratic system, what judges do, and how courts and judges affect our lives. Available for use at home, with community groups, or in the workplace. (Bolch Judicial Institute, Duke Law)
U.S. Federal Court Circuit Map

U.S. Constitution & Bill of Rights


Federal Judges & Judgeships


About the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit