Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

What are the three tiers of the Illinois court system?

1. Circuit court, municipal court, federal court

2. Circuit court, appellate court, supreme court

3. Circuit court, family court, supreme court

4. Circuit court, trial court, district court

The correct answer is: Circuit court, appellate court, supreme court

The three tiers of the Illinois court system include the circuit court, the appellate court, and the supreme court. This system reflects the structured approach to judicial proceedings in Illinois, where each level serves a distinct role in the administration of justice. The circuit court functions as the trial court where cases are initially heard. It handles a wide array of cases, including criminal, civil, family, and probate matters. After a decision is made in the circuit court, parties dissatisfied with the outcome may appeal to the appellate court, which reviews the decisions made by the circuit court for legal errors. The appellate court serves to ensure that the law has been applied correctly and fairly. Finally, the supreme court occupies the highest tier, and it is the court of last resort in the state. Its primary responsibilities include reviewing significant legal questions raised from the appellate court’s decisions and resolving conflicts in the interpretation of law among the appellate districts. This hierarchical structure is fundamental to maintaining a fair trial system and providing a process for appeals, hence solidifying the correct answer choice regarding the tiers of the Illinois court system.