1. Nick Melendez & Johanna Redick

2.  A typical state court system resembles the federal system.  Legislature makes the laws.  Executive branch enforces those laws.  A typical states judicial system is divided into 3 tiers.

3.  Most states have trial courts which have jurisdiction over civil and criminal matters.  A court of record keeps an exact account of what goes on at trial.  The accuracy of this record is vital because appeals depend on it.

4.  An appeal is when someone asks the court to review a previous case.  There is a panel of judges that decides if the first court made the right decision.  No new evidence can be submitted at this time.

5.  Only the most complex legal issues are brought in front of the state supreme court.  Consists of a panel of 3 or more justices.  The decision these courts make is final and cannot be appealed.  Has original jurisdiction over most impeachment cases.