What role do appellate courts play in the judicial system?

Appellate courts play a crucial role in the judicial system by reviewing decisions made by lower courts. Their primary function is to ensure that the law was applied correctly and that legal procedures were followed in the trial courts. When a case is appealed, the appellate court examines the record of the lower court's proceedings, looking specifically for errors that may have affected the outcome of the case.

The appellate judges do not conduct trials or hear new evidence; rather, they focus on issues of law and legal interpretation, making their decisions based on written briefs and legal arguments presented by the parties. This review process helps to maintain a standard of justice, as it allows for the correction of mistakes and the clarification of legal principles, thereby promoting consistency in the application of the law across the judicial system.