0250 Judicial Branch
Program Descriptions

0130 - SUPREME COURT

The Supreme Court is the highest court in the California judicial system. Its decisions are binding on all other California state courts. The Chief Justice of California and the six Associate Justices entertain petitions seeking review of decisions from the Courts of Appeal, original petitions for extraordinary relief (such as writs of mandate or habeas corpus), and recommendations for discipline of judicial officers and attorneys. The Court grants review and issues opinions in order to settle legal questions of statewide importance. In addition, under the California Constitution, all death penalty judgments are appealed directly to the Supreme Court.