What is the legal significance of an "appeal"?

An appeal holds significant legal importance as it serves as a formal request for a higher court to examine the decision made by a lower court. This process allows parties who believe that a legal error affected the outcome of their case to seek a reevaluation of that decision. The higher court, often called an appellate court, evaluates whether the law was applied correctly and whether the rights of the parties involved were upheld during the initial trial.

Through this mechanism, the legal system provides a method for correcting mistakes, ensuring that justice is served. If the appellate court finds that an error did occur, it can overturn the lower court's decision, lead to a new trial, or modify the existing ruling. Thus, the appeal process plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the judicial system and enhancing the rule of law by providing a check on judicial authority.