APPELLATE COURTS Meaning and
Definition
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Appellate courts are a branch of the judiciary system responsible for reviewing decisions made by lower courts or administrative agencies. These courts serve as an avenue for individuals or organizations who wish to challenge or seek redress for a previous court ruling.
The primary function of appellate courts is to ensure that legal principles and procedures have been correctly applied and interpreted by lower courts. Instead of re-examining the facts of a case or holding new trials, these courts focus on assessing whether errors in legal judgment occurred during earlier proceedings. This includes analyzing whether the lower court interpreted statutes correctly, followed procedural rules, considered evidence appropriately, and acted in accordance with the Constitution.
Cases in appellate courts are usually heard by panels of judges, typically between three and fifteen, depending on the jurisdiction and specific court. The judges review the record of the lower court, including transcripts, exhibits, and written arguments presented by the parties involved. In some cases, oral arguments may be heard, allowing the attorneys of both parties to present their arguments before the appellate judges. After thorough review and deliberation, the appellate court produces a written opinion, outlining its judgment, reasoning, and any applicable legal precedent.
Furthermore, appellate court decisions have the power to set legal precedent, establishing guidelines for lower courts to follow in similar cases. These opinions influence future interpretations of the law and ensure consistency and fairness within the legal system. Overall, appellate courts play a vital role in ensuring the integrity and accuracy of the legal process by providing a pathway for appeals and reviewing the decisions of lower courts.
Common Misspellings for APPELLATE COURTS
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Etymology of APPELLATE COURTS
The word "appellate" comes from the Latin word "appellāre", which means "to call" or "to summon". This term evolved in legal contexts to refer to the act of calling or summoning a case for review by a higher court. The word "court" originates from the Old French word "cort", which means "a sovereign's residence or a legal assembly". Over time, "court" began to specifically denote a place where legal cases were heard and decided. Therefore, "appellate courts" refers to the higher courts that have the authority to hear and decide appeals from lower courts.
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