Judgments of subordinate appellate courts refer to the decisions made by lower-level appellate courts within a judicial system. In many legal systems, there is a hierarchical structure of courts, with higher courts having authority over lower courts. Subordinate appellate courts typically fall within this hierarchy.
When a case is appealed from a trial court, it is usually heard by an appellate court. The appellate court’s role is to review the decision made by the trial court and determine if any errors were made or if the decision was in line with the law. If the appellate court finds that errors occurred or the decision was incorrect, it may overturn, modify, or remand the case back to the trial court for further proceedings.
The judgments or decisions made by subordinate appellate courts are binding within their jurisdiction, meaning they establish legal precedents that lower courts within the same jurisdiction must follow. However, these judgments are not binding on higher appellate courts or courts in other jurisdictions.
Higher appellate courts, such as state or federal supreme courts, have the power to review the judgments of subordinate appellate courts. If there are further appeals, the higher court will review the case and either affirm, reverse, or modify the decision made by the subordinate appellate court.
In summary, judgments of subordinate appellate courts have legal authority within their jurisdiction and are subject to review by higher courts. They contribute to the development of legal principles and precedents that guide future decisions within the same jurisdiction.