## Overview The United States District Court for the District of New Jersey is one of the oldest and most significant federal trial courts in the United States. Established by the Judiciary Act of 1789, it is the second oldest federal district court in the nation[7]. The court operates at three main locations: Newark, Camden, and Trenton, reflecting its statewide jurisdiction and accessibility[6]. ## What It Does The District Court in New Jersey is a federal trial court that handles a wide range of civil and criminal cases, including matters related to constitutional law, intellectual property, securities, antitrust, and civil rights. It is the venue for federal prosecutions, lawsuits between parties from different states, and cases involving federal law. The court also plays a central role in the federal probation and pretrial services system, overseeing rehabilitation, supervision, and risk assessment for offenders[2]. ## Historical Significance The court’s first session was held on December 22, 1789, just months after the federal judiciary was established[1]. Its judges have included prominent legal figures—some later served on higher courts, such as the U.S. Supreme Court (Samuel Alito, Jr.) and the Third Circuit Court of Appeals[1]. Several U.S. Attorneys for New Jersey, including former Governor Christopher J. Christie, have gone on to significant public service roles[1]. The Historical Society of the District of New Jersey preserves and celebrates this rich legal heritage, offering resources for scholars and the public[4]. ## Key Achievements and Innovations The District Court has been a leader in judicial administration and technology. In the 1990s, it introduced “enhanced supervision” for probationers, pioneered leadership development programs for officers, and adopted new technologies like the sweat patch for drug testing[2]. The court was also among the first to implement electronic case filing, streamlining operations and improving transparency for litigants and the public. ## Current Status Today, the Distric