Select your state

Courts

criminal courts

Criminal courts are usually trial courts with the authority to hear only matters relating to criminal prosecutions—and are said to have exclusive jurisdiction of criminal matters within the county, for example. And in some states there are appellate courts with exclusive jurisdiction over criminal appeals. For example, in Texas, the intermediate courts of appeals hear both civil and criminal cases, but the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals is the court of last resort for criminal matters, and hears appeals of criminal matters from the intermediate courts of appeal.

In Illinois, criminal courts are primarily structured with trial courts known as Circuit Courts, which have the authority to hear criminal cases. These courts exercise jurisdiction over criminal matters within their respective counties. Illinois has a two-tier appellate court system for criminal cases. The first level is the Illinois Appellate Court, which hears appeals from the Circuit Courts. Decisions from the Appellate Court can be further reviewed by the Illinois Supreme Court, which is the highest court in the state. However, unlike Texas, where there is a separate Court of Criminal Appeals as the court of last resort for criminal matters, the Illinois Supreme Court serves as the final appellate authority for both civil and criminal cases in Illinois.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

Individual & Family Legal Plan

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Courts

criminal courts

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Illinois State Code

Illinois State Code

Articles

Courts

criminal courts