The Circuit Court is the trial court of general jurisdiction in Illinois. It has jurisdiction over all civil and criminal cases, except those that are specifically reserved for the appellate court or supreme court. The circuit court also has jurisdiction over probate, juvenile, and domestic relations cases.
Appellate Court
The Appellate Court is the intermediate court of appeal in Illinois. It has jurisdiction to review appeals from the circuit court and from certain administrative agencies. The appellate court is divided into five districts, each of which is served by a panel of three judges.
Supreme Court
The Supreme Court is the highest court in Illinois. It has jurisdiction to review appeals from the appellate court and from certain administrative agencies. The supreme court also has the power to issue original writs, such as mandamus, prohibition, and habeas corpus. The supreme court is composed of seven justices, who are elected for 10-year terms.
