Connecticut Case Law

The Connecticut state court system is divided into three levels. The highest court in Connecticut is the Connecticut Supreme Court, which consists of seven judges. The Supreme Court reviews appeals of decisions by the Connecticut Appellate Court. It also reviews appeals of decisions by trial courts in limited situations. Decisions by the Connecticut Supreme Court are final unless the U.S. Supreme Court agrees to review an appeal of a decision.

The middle level of the Connecticut state court system is the Connecticut Appellate Court, which consists of nine judges. The Appellate Court reviews most appeals of decisions by trial courts. It may review cases in three-judge panels or as a whole.

The lowest level of the Connecticut state court system consists of the Connecticut Superior Courts and the Connecticut Probate Courts. The Superior Courts are trial courts with general jurisdiction over civil and criminal cases, as well as matters related to family law and housing. These courts also review appeals of decisions by Probate Courts. The jurisdiction of the Probate Courts is limited to certain types of cases. These include wills, trusts, guardianships, parental rights, adoptions, name changes, and similar matters.