What is the role of the appellate courts in the justice system?

Appellate courts, also known as appeals courts, play a crucial role in the justice system. These courts are responsible for reviewing decisions made by lower courts and determining whether they were decided in accordance with the law. Their decisions can have a significant impact on the outcome of cases and the interpretation of laws.

When a party to a case disagrees with the outcome of a trial or lower court decision, they can appeal the decision to a higher court, such as an appellate court. Appellate courts do not conduct new trials or hear new evidence. Instead, they review the record of the trial or lower court decision to determine whether any errors were made in the application of the law or procedure.

Appellate courts typically have a panel of judges who review cases and make decisions. These judges may be appointed or elected, depending on the jurisdiction. The decisions of appellate courts can be appealed further to higher courts, such as state supreme courts or federal courts.