Ohio Surety Bail Agent Practice Exam

What types of cases does the "Appeals Court" review?

1. Civil matters under $25,000

2. Initial felony charges

3. A review of lower court decisions

4. Contract fraud cases

The correct answer is: A review of lower court decisions

The Appeals Court primarily functions as a review body for decisions made by lower courts. Its role is to assess whether the lower court made any legal errors during the trial process or in its decisions. This includes reviewing the application of law, the presentation of evidence, and procedural matters, ensuring that the rights of the parties involved were upheld according to legal standards. In contrast, the other options presented illustrate types of matters that may initiate in various courts but are not the focus of what the Appeals Court does. For example, initial felony charges are typically handled in trial courts or intermediate courts rather than on appeal, and civil matters under a specific monetary threshold would also fall under the jurisdiction of trial courts. Similarly, contract fraud cases are initially tried at the trial level, where the facts are established and evidence is presented, before potentially being elevated to an appellate level if there is a dispute over the application of legal principles. Thus, the Appeals Court's primary function is the review of lower court decisions, ensuring that justice is fairly administered.