What is the difference between trial and appellate courts?

Trial and appellate courts are both important parts of the legal system. However, they have some key differences. Trial courts are the first courts to hear a case. In these courts, the facts of the case are introduced to a jury or judge. Evidence is presented, witnesses are questioned, and a verdict is reached. Appellate courts are the next step in the legal process. These courts review the decisions of trial courts to make sure that the law was applied correctly. Appellate courts do not hear new evidence or witness testimony. Instead, they review the proceedings of the trial court to determine if a legal mistake was made. Trial courts are responsible for deciding questions of fact. This means that they determine what happened in a case. Appellate courts are only concerned with questions of law. This means they decide whether the legal rules were properly applied in the trial court. In Maryland, the Maryland Court of Appeals is the highest appellate court. All other appellate decisions are subject to review by the Court of Appeals. Thus, the Court of Appeals is the final authority in Maryland on the interpretation of state law. In summary, trial courts are responsible for determining questions of fact while appellate courts are responsible for deciding questions of law. Both are necessary parts of the legal system.

Related FAQs

Are parties able to challenge an appellate court’s decision through a petition for writ of certiorari?
What is the standard of proof necessary to win an appeal?
What legal remedies are available in an appeal?
What is the difference between a direct appeal and a writ of habeas corpus?
What is the time period for filing an appeal?
Are parties able to appeal an appellate court’s decision to a higher court?
What is the difference between an appeal and a writ of certiorari?
How do I file a motion for reconsideration with an appellate court?
What is the appellate court’s scope of review for a trial court’s decision to grant or deny a motion to suppress evidence?
How does an appellate court evaluate a trial court’s legal errors?

What is the difference between trial and appellate courts?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts