Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes the role of the appellate court?

1. To hear initial trials

2. To review decisions of lower courts

3. To enforce laws

4. To supervise law enforcement agencies

The correct answer is: To review decisions of lower courts

The role of the appellate court primarily involves reviewing decisions made by lower courts or trial courts. Unlike trial courts, where cases are presented, evidence is examined, and witnesses are called, appellate courts focus on evaluating whether the law was applied correctly and whether proper legal procedures were followed during the initial trial. They do not conduct new trials or hear new evidence; instead, they analyze records from the lower court proceedings and the legal arguments presented by the parties involved. This review ensures that decisions respect legal standards and contribute to the development of the law through interpretations that can set precedents for future cases. In this context, while the other roles listed might seem relevant, they do not accurately capture the primary function of appellate courts. For instance, hearing initial trials is specific to trial courts, enforcing laws is a broader responsibility of various branches of government, and supervision of law enforcement agencies is outside the purview of the judicial system. Thus, the correct answer encapsulates the essence of the appellate court's responsibilities.