The U.S. judicial system operates under a dual structure of federal and state courts, each with defined jurisdiction based on the U.S. Constitution and statutory law. This structure was codified under the Judicial Code of June 25, 1948 (62 Stat. 869). Below is an overview of the courts, their constitutional basis, and how different methods of pleading—pro se and sui juris, in propria persona—affect one’s standing.