Georgia Judicial Branch Practice Test 2026 - Free Judicial Branch Practice Questions and Study Guide

The role of a trial court in Georgia involves determining the facts and applying the law to individual cases. Trial courts are the first point of contact for most legal disputes and are responsible for hearing both civil and criminal cases. In this capacity, judges in trial courts evaluate evidence, hear witness testimonies, and make rulings based on the facts presented in each case. This foundational role allows for a direct examination of legal issues, ensuring that decisions are informed and just based on the specifics of the case at hand.

In contrast, overseeing the appointment of judges is not a function of trial courts but falls under the jurisdiction of higher authorities, such as state legislatures or executive branches. Issuing public policy is more aligned with legislative functions rather than judicial ones, as courts interpret laws rather than create policy. Handling appellate cases is also outside the scope of trial courts; that responsibility is typically reserved for appellate courts, which review decisions made by trial courts to ensure legal standards and procedural fairness were upheld. Therefore, the primary focus of trial courts in Georgia is to determine facts and law in individual cases, distinguishing their critical role in the judicial process.