Ülemkohus

Ülemkohus, literally "upper court" in Estonian, is the term used to denote the highest court of appeal in a jurisdiction’s judiciary. It functions as the court of last resort, reviewing decisions of lower courts on questions of law and ensuring the uniform application of statutes. In many systems, the ülemkohus also has constitutional functions, either directly or through a separate constitutional court, and its decisions can shape the interpretation of the constitution and national legislation.

Typically, the ülemkohus operates through panels or chambers composed of senior judges, led by a chief justice or president. Cases are usually heard after leave or on appeal, and judgments are binding on all courts within the country. The court may also issue rulings that address procedural rules, evidentiary standards, and the development of case law. Where a separate constitutional court exists, constitutional questions may be referred to it, leaving the ülemkohus to deal with ordinary appellate matters.

Judges are generally appointed by the state through a process designed to protect judicial independence, and tenure varies by jurisdiction (life tenure, fixed terms, or mandatory retirement). The authority of the ülemkohus is defined by constitutional provisions, statutes, and the judiciary’s rules of procedure.

In Estonia, the highest court is called Riigikohus; ülemkohus is a general term meaning "supreme court" and may be used in translation or historical contexts, but the official name of the court is Riigikohus.