Appellate Court

Definition

An appellate court is a higher court that reviews decisions made by lower courts to determine if legal errors occurred during the trial process. These courts do not conduct new trials or hear new evidence; instead, they focus on the application of law and whether the legal rights of the parties were upheld in the original case.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Appellate courts typically consist of a panel of judges who review cases instead of a jury.
2. The decisions made by appellate courts can set legal precedents that lower courts must follow in future cases.
3. Most appellate courts only review cases based on written briefs submitted by the parties involved, rather than conducting in-person testimony.
4. If an appellate court finds an error, it can reverse or modify the decision of the lower court or send the case back for a new trial.
5. Not all cases are eligible for appeal; parties usually need to demonstrate that a significant legal issue was at stake during the original trial.

Review Questions

• What role do appellate courts play in ensuring justice within the legal system?
  • Appellate courts play a critical role in ensuring justice by reviewing lower court decisions for legal errors. They help maintain the integrity of the judicial process by correcting mistakes that could affect the outcome of a case. Through their reviews, appellate courts also contribute to developing legal standards and clarifying laws for future cases.
• How do appellate courts differ from trial courts in terms of their functions and processes?
  • Appellate courts differ from trial courts primarily in their function and processes. While trial courts are responsible for hearing evidence, determining facts, and issuing verdicts, appellate courts focus solely on reviewing the application of law in previous cases. Appellate judges evaluate written briefs and may hear oral arguments but do not conduct trials or re-examine evidence.
• Evaluate how the decisions made by appellate courts can impact future legal proceedings and societal norms.
  • Decisions made by appellate courts can have a profound impact on future legal proceedings as they often set binding precedents that lower courts must follow. This ability to shape legal standards can influence how laws are interpreted and applied across various jurisdictions. Moreover, as appellate courts address significant social issues through their rulings, they can contribute to changing societal norms and expectations regarding justice and individual rights.

Related terms

Trial Court: The initial court where cases are heard, evidence is presented, and verdicts are reached.

Judicial Review: The power of courts to assess whether a law or governmental action is in accordance with the constitution.

Oral Arguments: Presentations made by attorneys to the appellate court, summarizing their positions and responding to judges' questions.