How are state and federal appellate courts similar?

Both hear cases from lower courts.

Both have judges and juries.

Both hear civil cases only.

Both hear all cases brought to them.

Both hear cases from lower courts.

Answer: Both hear cases from lower courts.

An appellate court or appeals court is one that is empowered to hear cases from lower tribunals. In most cases, when a case is not successfully concluded in a lower court, the decision can be appealed and studied again by a higher court (the appellate court). This ensures that people have access to a second opinion. It also ensures that courts rule in a way that is fair and consistent.