What is the role of the Georgia Supreme Court?

The Georgia Supreme Court functions as the highest court in the state, which means it has the ultimate authority over the interpretation of Georgia law. This role includes hearing appeals from lower courts, particularly in cases that involve significant legal principles or where there is a disagreement among lower courts. The decisions made by the Georgia Supreme Court set binding precedents for all other state courts, thus shaping the application of law throughout Georgia.

This court primarily focuses on appellate review rather than managing trial cases. Handling trial cases is typically within the jurisdiction of lower courts, such as superior or state courts. While the Georgia Supreme Court can influence public policy through its rulings, its main function is judicial rather than legislative; it does not actively oversee public policy. Additionally, while the court’s rulings can have implications for how state laws are enforced, it does not take on the direct responsibility of enforcing laws — that task is generally within the purview of law enforcement agencies and other judicial authorities.