1) Superior Court - This is where most trials are held. The Court is usually divided into several areas in which judges hear one type of case. For instance, in Maricopa County, the Superior Court is divided into the following departments: Criminal, Civil, Probate/Mental Health, Juvenile, Family and Tax. For more information on what happens in Superior Court, check out the web sites for the Pima County Superior Court at and click on "Kid's Corner."

2) Court of Appeals - After a trial or a ruling by the Superior Court judge, a party may ask the Court of Appeals to review the trial judge's decision and decide whether it was proper. The court does not always have to hear these cases. When they do, a panel of three judges listens to oral argument from both sides and then renders a decision in writing. More information on the Arizona Court of Appeals.

3) Supreme Court - This is the final court of review for cases in the State. If a party receives an adverse ruling at the court of appeals, they may ask the Supreme Court to reverse that decision. In some cases, such as a defendant committed of capital murder, the appeal goes directly to the Supreme Court, but mostly, the Court of Appeals will hear the case first. The Supreme Court also has the power to set the rules of procedure in all other courts in the State. Take a look at the Arizona Supreme Court's web site for more information.