How many types of courts exist in Idaho?

Idaho has four distinct types of courts that serve different functions within the state’s judicial system. These include the Supreme Court, which is the highest court in Idaho and primarily handles appellate jurisdiction including appeals from lower courts. The second is the Court of Appeals, which is an intermediate appellate court that assists the Supreme Court by handling certain appeal cases. The third type is the District Court, which serves as the trial court of general jurisdiction and handles most civil and criminal cases. Lastly, there are Magistrate Courts, which deal with smaller civil cases, misdemeanors, and preliminary hearings in felony cases.

This structure is essential to understand the hierarchy and specialization of courts within Idaho. Each court has distinct roles and responsibilities, ensuring that the legal system efficiently addresses various types of cases and appeals.