What is the primary function of an appellate court?

The primary function of an appellate court is to review decisions made by lower courts. Appellate courts do not conduct new trials or hear new evidence; instead, they focus on examining the legal principles and procedures that were applied in the original trial to ensure that the law was followed correctly. They assess whether there were any errors in the application of the law or procedural missteps that could have affected the outcome of the case.

In an appellate review, the court evaluates written briefs, the record from the lower court, and may hear oral arguments from the attorneys involved. The purpose is to determine if the trial court made mistakes that warrant a reversal or modification of the decision. This process emphasizes the importance of legal consistency and fairness in the judicial system.

The other options describe functions that are not characteristic of appellate courts. Conducting trials and hearing new evidence is typically the role of trial courts. Assuming jurisdiction over criminal cases can also fall within the realm of trial courts, as appellate courts deal with appeals rather than initial cases. Managing civil disputes is chiefly a function of trial courts where these cases are initially filed and resolved.