What is the role of the Utah Court of Appeals?

The role of the Utah Court of Appeals is primarily to review decisions made by lower courts, including district and juvenile courts. This appellate court examines the records of cases to ensure that legal procedures were properly followed and that decisions align with the law. Its function is to provide oversight, allowing for corrections in case law and adherence to legal standards.

Unlike a trial court, which hears evidence and arguments to establish the facts of a case, the Court of Appeals evaluates previous rulings and legal interpretations. This ensures that individuals receive fair treatment under the law and that the judicial process is upheld. The appellate court does not deal with serious criminal cases in the same direct manner as original trial courts, nor does it operate as a local court for small claims or serve as the highest authority like the Supreme Court of Utah.