The Iowa Court of Appeals is the intermediate appellate court in the state of Iowa. It reviews decisions made by lower courts, including district courts, to ensure that the law was applied correctly. Established in 1976, the court helps manage the caseload of the Iowa Supreme Court by handling appeals in civil and criminal cases. The court consists of nine judges who are appointed by the Governor of Iowa and confirmed by the Iowa Senate. They serve six-year terms and are responsible for issuing written opinions that clarify legal principles and guide future cases in the state.