Which courts are classified as courts of record in Arizona?

In Arizona, courts of record are those courts that maintain a permanent and official record of their proceedings, decisions, and any other relevant materials associated with cases they handle. This classification includes the Supreme Court, the court of appeals, and the superior court.

The Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority in Arizona, and as such, it produces authoritative decisions that must be recorded for legal reference and precedent. The court of appeals, which hears cases that may involve important legal questions from the trial courts, also maintains a detailed record of its opinions and rulings. Similarly, the superior court, which handles a broad range of civil and criminal cases, is required to keep official records of all proceedings, ensuring transparency and accountability in the judicial process.

Thus, the inclusion of the Supreme Court, court of appeals, and superior court collectively highlights the importance of these courts in the legal system of Arizona, where recorded documentation is essential for maintaining the rule of law and providing an archive for future legal cases and appeals.