B.2. District Courts

Except where this Charter provides otherwise, the District Courts have original jurisdiction over all federal civil and criminal cases. This includes constitutional claims, violations of federal law, and disputes between Persons or entities arising under this Charter or federal statutes.

District Courts may also:

• Review actions taken by federal agencies,

• Hear petitions for habeas corpus, and

• Conduct preliminary hearings in cases where a higher court holds original jurisdiction.

District Courts may not hear appeals, except as permitted by law in cases involving administrative review.

District Court boundaries within each State must ensure fair access to justice and equal population distribution across the federal system. No District may cross State lines. These boundaries shall be reviewed following each national census and may be redrawn to reflect changes in population, geography, or caseload.

A nonpartisan commission shall be formed to review and recommend changes to District Court boundaries, following the structure and rules outlined in this Charter.