What is the primary role of the Idaho Supreme Court?

The primary role of the Idaho Supreme Court is to act as the final court of appeal and hear appeals from district courts. This means that the Supreme Court reviews decisions made by lower courts to ensure that the law has been interpreted and applied correctly. Its function is critical in maintaining the rule of law and ensuring the uniformity of legal interpretations across the state.

In this capacity, the Idaho Supreme Court not only evaluates the application of law in specific cases but also provides important legal precedents which guide lower courts in future cases. This role does not involve the creation of laws, which is the work of the legislature. The Supreme Court also does not limit its duties to just criminal cases; it hears a wide variety of cases, including civil appeals, thereby serving a broader purpose within the judicial system. Lastly, oversight of county courts is typically a responsibility of the administrative branches of the judiciary rather than the Supreme Court itself.