A TYPICAL STATE COURT SYSTEM

Nick Melendez & Johanna Redick

A typical state court system resembles the federal system.

Legislature makes the laws. Executive branch enforces those laws. A typical states judicial system is divided

into 3 tiers.

State Trial Courts

Most states have trial courts which have jurisdiction over civil and criminal matters.

A court of record keeps an exact account of what goes on at trial.

The accuracy of this record is vital because appeals depend on it.

State Courts Of Appeals

An appeal is when someone asks the court to review a previous case.

There is a panel of judges that decides if the first court made the right decision.

No new evidence can be submitted at this time.

State Supreme Courts

Only the most complex legal issues are brought in front of the state supreme court.

Consists of a panel of 3 or more justices. The decision these courts make is final

and cannot be appealed. Has original jurisdiction over most

impeachment cases.