Georgia Constitution Practice Exam

In appellate cases involving constitutionality of law, what type of jurisdiction does the Supreme Court possess?

1. no jurisdiction

2. shared appellate jurisdiction with the Court of Appeals

3. shared appellate jurisdiction with the Superior Court

4. exclusive jurisdiction

The correct answer is: exclusive jurisdiction

The Supreme Court of Georgia possesses exclusive jurisdiction in appellate cases that involve the constitutionality of laws. This means that when a law’s constitutionality is challenged, only the Supreme Court is authorized to hear and decide such cases, ensuring that these critical legal questions are resolved at the highest level of the state judiciary. This exclusive jurisdiction serves to uphold the state's constitution by providing a definitive legal authority on interpretations of constitutional matters without overlapping from other courts. Cases involving the constitutionality of laws can have far-reaching implications, and as such, it is essential that they are addressed by the Supreme Court alone to maintain consistent interpretations and applications of the law throughout Georgia. In contrast, other types of disputes may be handled by different courts, such as the Court of Appeals or Superior Court, but constitutional issues specifically fall under the exclusive mandate of the Supreme Court.