What did the Judiciary Act of 1789 establish?

The Judiciary Act of 1789 established a three-part system of federal courts, which laid the foundation for the federal judiciary in the United States. This act created a hierarchical structure that included the Supreme Court at the top, followed by Circuit Courts, and then District Courts. This structure delineated the powers and functions of the various levels of federal courts, allowing for a more organized and systematic approach to federal legal matters.

By establishing these tiers, the Judiciary Act ensured that there were clear pathways for legal cases to be processed and adjudicated, which helped maintain order in the judicial system and ensured that federal law was applied uniformly throughout the country. This system also allowed for appeals to be made to higher courts, reinforcing the concept of judicial review and the ability to challenge lower court decisions.

In contrast, other options do not accurately reflect the significance of the Judiciary Act. The act did not establish a single jurisdiction for all courts, as state and federal courts maintain separate jurisdictions. It also did not create a nationwide police force, which operates independently of the judicial system. Additionally, while it allowed for an appeals process, it did not specifically create a direct appeal process for state courts, as that delineation is more complex and varies across different jurisdictions.