Court of Appeals

The San Andreas Court of Appeals serves as the first level of appellate review within the state’s judicial system. Established under Article VI, Section 3 of the San Andreas State Constitution, the Court of Appeals ensures that justice is carried out consistently and in accordance with the rule of law. It functions as an essential safeguard in the state’s judicial hierarchy, reviewing cases that have been decided in the local and county courts to ensure that proper legal procedures and interpretations were followed.

The Court of Appeals possesses appellate jurisdiction over decisions made by local and county courts, as prescribed by law. Its authority extends across multiple counties within each judicial district, allowing the Court to oversee a broad range of cases while promoting uniformity in judicial interpretation. The Court does not retry cases or hear new evidence; instead, it reviews trial records, written arguments, and, when necessary, oral presentations to determine whether a legal error occurred that affected the outcome of the case. Through this process, the Court upholds the rights of litigants and maintains the consistent application of state law.

Judges serving on the Court of Appeals are selected through a merit-based process administered by the Judicial Nominating Commission. The Commission reviews applications and evaluates candidates based on their qualifications, professional integrity, and judicial temperament. Upon selection by the Commission, each nominee must be confirmed by at least fifty-five percent (55%) of the Legislature before assuming office. This process preserves both independence and accountability, ensuring that appointments are based on ability rather than political influence.

Judges on the Court of Appeals serve an initial two-year term, after which they are subject to a retention election. If retained by the voters, they serve six-year terms for the remainder of their tenure. Under the Constitution, no judge may serve more than twenty-six years in total on the Court of Appeals. This combination of legislative confirmation and periodic voter retention balances judicial continuity with public oversight, ensuring that those who serve on the Court remain committed to fairness and impartiality throughout their careers.

As the intermediary between the trial courts and the San Andreas Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity and uniformity of the state’s legal system. Its decisions establish precedents that guide lower courts and often form the basis for further review by the Supreme Court. Through careful examination of each case, the Court of Appeals reinforces the principles of justice, due process, and equality under the law—principles that define the judicial foundation of the State of San Andreas.