Courts are state and federal government institutions with the authority to decide legal disputes and administer justice under the law in civil, criminal, and administrative matters. Courts are generally given this authority under the relevant state or federal constitution, and the relevant state or federal statutes. Courts are generally staffed by (1) one judge (in trial courts) or a panel of judges (in appellate courts) who interpret and apply the law; (2) support staff members that may include administrators (clerks); (3) a court reporter to record court proceedings; and (4) a bailiff to provide security.

The room in which court proceedings are conducted is known as the courtroom, and the building that includes the courtroom is known as the courthouse. The term “the court” may be used to refer to the judge or judges who are presiding over court proceedings. The judges in a state or federal court system are collectively known as the judiciary.

In Washington State, courts operate at both the state and federal levels to resolve legal disputes and uphold justice in accordance with the law across civil, criminal, and administrative cases. The authority of these courts is derived from the Washington State Constitution and state statutes, as well as the U.S. Constitution and federal laws for federal courts. At the trial court level, typically one judge presides over cases, while appellate courts may have a panel of judges. The judiciary, which encompasses all judges within the state or federal court system, is supported by staff including clerks, court reporters, and bailiffs. Clerks manage court administration, court reporters transcribe proceedings, and bailiffs ensure courtroom security. Courtrooms are the specific spaces where legal proceedings occur, and these are housed within courthouses. The term 'the court' can refer to the physical courtroom or to the judge or panel of judges presiding over a case.