What is the primary focus of the SC Supreme Court?

The primary focus of the South Carolina Supreme Court is on hearing direct appeals and writs of certiorari. The court serves as the highest appellate court in the state, which means its main role is to review decisions made by lower courts and to ensure the proper application of law. In this capacity, the court addresses significant legal questions and provides guidance on matters of constitutional and statutory interpretation.

Direct appeals usually arise from cases that have substantial public interest or legal precedence, while writs of certiorari involve requests to review lower court decisions for errors. This function is crucial in maintaining uniformity and consistency in the interpretation of law throughout the state.

Other options, such as handling misdemeanor cases or overseeing criminal trials, fall under the jurisdiction of lower trial courts. The Supreme Court does not engage directly in these types of cases; instead, it reviews cases that have already been adjudicated in these courts, focusing on appeals that can influence broader legal principles and standards in South Carolina.