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How are Judges selected in Georgia?
legislatures
court judges
Criminal law deals with actions that harm people or society:
Purpose: The emphasis of adult court is on punishment, while the emphasis in juvenile court is on rehabilitation.
Criminal cases are introduced by the government seeking punishment (fine,
imprisonment, or death)
Jurisdiction: Juvenile Courts have jurisdiction (the right to rule) over cases involving children under 17 years old, or children under 18 who do not have a parent or guardian.
Terminology: Juveniles are “taken into custody” and adults are
“arrested”; adults are found “guilty” and juveniles are found “delinquent”.
In criminal cases, the defendant has the right to defend himself or not to testify under the 5th Amendment.
Civil law deals with private disputes:
In a criminal case, the prosecutor must prove the defendant guilty “beyond a
reasonable doubt”
Civil cases are introduced by private parties seeking monetary damages.
In civil cases, the defendant may be forced to testify.
In a civil case, the plaintiff only needs to show guilt of the other party by a "preponderance of the evidence”.
Trial Courts are lower courts with the original right, power, or authority to interpret and apply the law.
Superior Courts can hear almost any civil or criminal case and consists of a judge and a jury.
State Courts hold jurisdiction over misdemeanor violations
and civil cases and consists of judge and jury.
Juvenile Courts have jurisdiction over delinquent children under
17 years and deprived children under 18; no jury
Probate Courts handle administrative matters such as
wills; may have a jury
What are some ways we can settle an issue without the courts?
Magistrate Courts handle small civil claims, bad checks,
arrest warrants, etc.; no jury
SS8CG4: The student will analyze the role of the judicial branch in Georgia state government.
Final Thoughts
In a democratic society, rule of law influences the behavior of citizens, establishes procedures for making policies, and limits the power of government. Rule of law also
teaches that adults should be held to
higher degree of accountability than children.
Appellate Courts handle appeals from lower courts:
Supreme Court of Georgia is the highest court in the state and has seven members, six Justices and a Chief Justice; no jury.
Court of Appeals has twelve judges working in three man
panels to hear appeals; no jury.