Cali System

These two chapters from the assigned reading gave insight to  how complex California’s state runs with its operating systems.  At the end of the reading, the author clarified that in spite of California’s system being perceived as one that is complex, it is a system that works together with many other smaller systems that are interlocked together. From the Federal government we have state governments that are right below that alongside with tribal governments.  The next levels down from those governments are the counties, cities, special districts and regional governments.

The first chapter goes in depth in regards to the operation of the court system. First we have the trial courts which are at the bottom of the system but this is probably the busiest of all . These courts exist in 58 counties. All cases go through this court system, which then decide whether to classify a case criminal or civil. Then, California has the court of appeal system which is composed a three judge panel. Finally, we have the Supreme Court which is composed of 7 justices.

                In spite of all the mass amount of components that it takes to make up California’s court system, 90% of cases NEVER make it to trial. Some factors can play a role in this outcome that primarily has to do with money. California has overpopulated prisons, and the costs of going to trial can be a burden. Another huge component is that California’s federal funding has been retained from 350 million to 200 million.

In order to regulate the state of California, the state has other form of governments. The 1879 constitution of California subdivides California into 58 counties. Yet, interestingly enough these subdivisions have no relation with the county’s population size, which leads to question how effective the county can be when serving so many citizens.  These counties are then regulated as Charter counties and the others that are regulated by state law. Special districts, county officials and cities supply “vital social and political services in many areas.” The fact that California is such a complex form of government helps the state further reach its purpose. But it is important to note that with the visionary display of California’s system to be divided into interlocking smaller systems, it is vital to know how important the dependency of each system has upon another. Therefore, it is important that all the systems work collaboratively, but most importantly it is vital that they work effectively to their out-most potential.