Constitution of United States of America

Judicial authority resides with a Supreme Court as well as lesser courts that Congress establishes. All judges receive a set salary and are expected to maintain “good Behavior.”

Judicial authority extends to legal matters “arising under” the Constitution, federal laws, treaties, and cases that impact ambassadors, “public Ministers,” and consuls. It also extends to cases involving the federal government, maritime law, and conflicts between multiple states and their respective citizens or citizens of other countries, particularly land disputes.

The Supreme Court may review appellate cases involving public officials, ambassadors, and consuls. Other cases go through appellate courts before they reach the Supreme Court as dictated by laws Congress creates.

All criminal cases are conducted as jury trials, except impeachment cases, and carried out in the state where the crime occurred. If a crime is not committed in a state, the location of the trial is determined by laws of Congress.

Treason against the US is of two forms: warfare against the United States and providing “Aid and Comfort” or “adhering to” the nation’s enemies. Conviction for treason is based on either the accused confessing in open court or the testimony of two witnesses to the same act of treason. Congress determines the punishment.