What is a trial court?

A trial court is a court that hears cases for the first time, which means it is the initial level of the judicial system where legal disputes are presented before a judge or jury. In a trial court, evidence is introduced, witnesses testify, and arguments are made by both sides. The trial court is responsible for establishing the facts of a case and making an ultimate determination based on the law and the evidence presented.

This role is crucial in the judicial process, as it provides a venue where legal claims can be settled before any appeals might be considered. In contrast, other options describe courts that function differently; for instance, courts of appeal focus on reviewing decisions made by trial courts rather than hearing cases from the beginning. Similarly, courts that handle only federal cases or specialize in administrative law are defined based on particular jurisdictions or areas of law, which do not represent the function of a trial court broadly.