Virginia Judicial Branch Overview

The video tutorial provides an overview of the Virginia state court system, part of the judicial branch responsible for interpreting laws. It explains the dual court system in the U.S., consisting of federal and state courts, and details the structure and hierarchy of Virginia's courts, including the General District Court, Circuit Court, Court of Appeals, and Supreme Court. The video also covers the specific roles and jurisdictions of juvenile and domestic relations courts, emphasizing their focus on rehabilitation and family cases. Additionally, it highlights the appellate process and the unique election of judges in Virginia.

What is the primary function of the Virginia judicial branch?

• To interpret laws

• To create laws

• To amend laws

• To enforce laws

How many separate state courts exist in the United States?

• 49

• 52

• 51

• 50

What is the main purpose of the General District Court in Virginia?

• To handle federal crimes

• To interpret the Constitution

• To hear minor civil and criminal cases

• To oversee state legislation

Which court is most likely to have a jury trial in Virginia?

• Circuit Court

• Juvenile Court

• General District Court

• Domestic Relations Court

What type of cases does the Circuit Court in Virginia primarily handle?

• Family disputes

• Felonies and serious civil cases

• Traffic violations

• Misdemeanors

How many judges are on the panel of the Virginia Court of Appeals?

• 13

• 7

• 9

• 11

What is the highest court in the Virginia state court system?

• General District Court

• Supreme Court of Virginia

• Court of Appeals

• Circuit Court

What is the role of the Virginia Supreme Court regarding death sentences?

• To enforce death sentences

• To issue death sentences

• To amend death sentence laws

• To automatically review death sentence cases

How are judges in Virginia selected?

• Appointed by the Governor

• Elected by the public

• Elected by the General Assembly

• Appointed for life

What is the unique feature of the Virginia Supreme Court compared to the US Supreme Court?

• It has original jurisdiction over all cases

• It cannot hear appeals from lower courts

• Judges are elected by the General Assembly

• Judges serve for life