What is the primary function of "appellate courts"?

The primary function of appellate courts is to review decisions made by lower courts. When a case is appealed, the appellate court examines the record of the lower court proceedings, including the trial court’s rulings and any evidence presented. The appellate judges assess whether legal errors occurred that could have impacted the outcome of the case. This process ensures that the law has been applied correctly and maintains uniformity in legal interpretations.

Appellate courts do not conduct trials or hear witness testimonies, as their role is not to re-evaluate the facts of a case but rather to focus on the legal questions and whether the rights of the parties were upheld in the initial proceedings. They also do not have the authority to create new laws; that responsibility lies with the legislative branch. Similarly, the management of juror selections and duties is the function of trial courts, not appellate courts. Therefore, the emphasis on reviewing lower court decisions accurately reflects the central role of appellate courts within the judicial system.