What role do appellate courts play in the judicial system?

Appellate courts primarily serve to review decisions made by lower courts, which is critical for ensuring the accuracy and fairness of judicial outcomes. This review process involves examining the record of the trial court’s proceedings, including the evidence presented and the legal arguments made. The appellate court determines if the law was applied correctly, if procedural rules were followed, and whether any legal errors impacted the outcome of the case.

By evaluating decisions made by lower courts, appellate courts help maintain consistency in the application of the law and contribute to the development of legal precedents that guide future cases. This role is vital because it allows for the correction of mistakes that may have been made at the trial level and ensures that the rights of individuals are protected by the legal system.

The other options do not accurately reflect the role of appellate courts. They do not create new laws; that function is typically reserved for legislatures. Appellate courts do not represent solely governmental interests but rather ensure fairness in the judicial process. Additionally, they do not directly manage law enforcement, as their focus is on interpreting and reviewing existing laws rather than their execution.