What is the primary role of lower federal courts?

The primary role of lower federal courts is to adjudicate federal cases that are not reserved for the Supreme Court. This includes a wide range of cases involving federal laws, constitutional issues, and disputes between states or citizens from different states where federal jurisdiction applies. These courts, which include District Courts and Courts of Appeal, serve as the first level of the judicial system where most cases are initially filed and heard.

Lower federal courts have the authority to conduct trials, evaluate evidence, and issue rulings based on federal statutes and constitutional principles. This function is crucial because the Supreme Court is primarily an appellate court, meaning it reviews decisions made by lower courts rather than hearing cases from the beginning. Thus, the lower federal courts play a vital role in the federal judiciary by ensuring that federal laws are interpreted and applied consistently while also relieving the Supreme Court of the burden of handling all federal cases directly.

In contrast, handling state law cases falls under the jurisdiction of state courts. Serving as appellate courts refers specifically to the role of higher courts reviewing lower court decisions, which is not the primary function of the lower federal courts. Enforcing federal regulations, while related to the judicial process, does not encompass the primary adjudicated function of these courts.