What are the three types of courts in Illinois?

The three types of courts in Illinois are Circuit, Appellate, and Supreme Courts.

The Circuit Courts serve as the trial courts of the state, handling a wide range of cases including civil, criminal, family, and traffic matters. Each of Illinois' 102 counties has a Circuit Court, which is the court system's foundation, where most legal disputes are initially addressed.

The Appellate Courts are responsible for reviewing decisions made by the Circuit Courts. They do not hold trials but rather conduct hearings to evaluate if legal errors were made in the lower courts that could have affected the outcomes of cases. Their role is critical in ensuring justice and correct application of law.

Lastly, the Supreme Court of Illinois is the highest court in the state. It has the authority to review decisions made by the Appellate Courts, thus playing a vital role in interpreting the Illinois Constitution and state laws. The Supreme Court also has the power to regulate the practice of law in Illinois and oversees the administration of the court system as a whole.

Understanding these three levels of courts is essential for grasping how the judiciary functions in Illinois, including how cases are processed and appealed throughout the system.