district court

American  

noun

U.S. Law.

1. (in many states) the court of general jurisdiction.

2. the federal trial court sitting in each district of the United States.

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district court British  

noun

1. (in Scotland) a court of summary jurisdiction held by a stipendiary magistrate or one or more justices of the peace to deal with minor criminal offences

2. 1. a federal trial court serving a federal judicial district

   2. (in some states) a court having general jurisdiction in a state judicial district

3. Former name: magistrates' court.  (in Australia and New Zealand) a court lower than a high court

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Etymology

Origin of district court

An Americanism dating back to 1780–90

Example Sentences

The orders, which were issued by third district court commissioner Russell Minas, are in place for three years and require Paul and Mortensen to stay at least 100 feet away from each other.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026

In 2024 a district court ruled in their favor, saying the law is without constitutional basis.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026

For the moment, a Louisiana district court was willing to grant the latter request.

From Slate • Apr. 13, 2026

A D.C. district court blocked the provision requiring documentary proof of citizenship in October.

From Salon • Apr. 1, 2026

The court remanded the case back to the district court for resentencing.

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander