The term "Oberlandesgericht" refers to a higher regional court in Germany. It serves as an appellate court, reviewing decisions made by lower courts, such as Landgerichte (regional courts). Each of the 16 German states has at least one Oberlandesgericht, which handles serious civil and criminal cases. Oberlandesgerichte play a crucial role in the German judicial system, ensuring that legal standards are upheld and providing a check on lower court rulings. They also contribute to the development of case law, influencing how laws are interpreted and applied across the country.