In cases originating from a state Superior Court, the California Court of Appeal hears the appeal. This is a statewide court system, consisting of six geographical districts. For example, the Second District Court of Appeal, whose courthouse is in downtown Los Angeles, hears appeals from cases in the Superior Courts in the Los Angeles metropolitan area.

Some appellate districts have several divisions. For example, Division Six of the Second District usually hears appeals from Superior Court cases in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura Counties. This Division has its own courthouse in downtown Ventura.

A panel of the Federal Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals hears appeals from cases in the federal District Court. The Ninth Circuit holds its hearings in Pasadena, San Francisco, Seattle, Portland and elsewhere.

Each appeal is heard and decided by a panel of three appellate court justices.