Acts that violate the laws of the United States, as defined by the U.S. Congress and adjudicated in the federal court system, constitute offenses against the nation as a whole. These transgressions, which range from tax evasion and drug trafficking to acts of terrorism and espionage, are distinct from violations of state or local laws. For instance, bank robbery, if the bank is federally insured, becomes an example adjudicated at the federal level.
The enforcement of statutes established at the national level is crucial for maintaining order and upholding the Constitution. A system of prosecution at this level ensures consistency in the application of justice across states and provides a mechanism for addressing matters that transcend state boundaries. Historically, the establishment of a tiered system allows for the handling of complex criminal and civil cases involving national interests.
