ICE-OPLA Law Practice Exam 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

The judicial branch is fundamentally divided into two main types of courts: trial courts and appellate courts.

Trial courts are the courts where legal cases begin, and they have the jurisdiction to hear a case for the first time. They conduct the initial proceedings, examine evidence, listen to witnesses, and deliver verdicts based on the facts presented. Essentially, trial courts serve as the first level of the judiciary system and handle both civil and criminal cases.

Appellate courts, on the other hand, do not conduct new trials. Instead, their primary function is to review the decisions made by trial courts to ensure that the law was applied correctly and that legal procedures were followed. They assess whether there were any errors in the trial that could have affected the outcome and can affirm, reverse, or modify trial court decisions based on their findings.

The distinction between these two types of courts is fundamental in understanding how the judicial system operates. It allows for a structured approach to legal proceedings, where cases are first heard and decided before potentially being reconsidered at a higher level. This dual structure is a critical aspect of ensuring justice and accountability within the judicial system.