Judicial Department

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The Iowa Supreme Court is an appellate court that serves as the court of last resort. It reviews decisions of trial courts in which appeals have been allowed and does not preside over trials. The court s hearings do not involve witnesses, juries, new evidence or court reporters, and reviews the written record of the trial court to determine whether any significant legal errors occurred. The Iowa Supreme Court is the constitutional head of the Iowa Judicial Branch and is located in Des Moines, Iowa. It has the sole power to admit persons to practice as attorneys in the courts of Iowa, to prescribe rules to supervise attorney conduct and to discipline attorneys. The court is also responsible for promulgating the rules of procedure and practice used throughout the state court. The Iowa Supreme Court has supervisory and administrative control over the judicial branch, judicial officers and court employees.