District Court is typically the lowest level of court in a state's court system where many personal injury cases are initially filed and decided. In most states, District Courts handle cases involving smaller amounts of money (often up to $15,000-$25,000, though this varies by state) and less complex legal issues, making them faster and less expensive than higher courts. If your injury case involves relatively minor damages like a fender-bender with small medical bills, it will likely be heard in District Court where procedures are more streamlined and you might not even need a lawyer.
District Court judges often hear cases without juries, making decisions themselves based on the evidence presented, and the rules are generally less formal than in higher courts. However, if you lose in District Court or if your case involves more money than the court's limit, you typically have the right to appeal to a higher court or request a new trial with a jury. Many District Courts also have small claims divisions where you can represent yourself in very simple cases, though for any significant personal injury claim, it's usually worth consulting with an attorney even if your case starts in District Court.
