There are no limits on judicial campaign contributions in most states. Money raised by Justices Thomas Phillips, Raul Gonzalez, Nathan Hecht, John Cornyn, Priscilla Owen, James Baker and Greg Abbot during the 18-month periods corresponding to their most recent elections. Democracy A system of government in which political control is exercised by all the people, either directly or through their representatives. An organization of people sharing a common interest or goal that seeks to influence the formation of public policy. A committee set up by and representing a corporation, labor union, or special-interest group that raises and spends campaign contributions on behalf of one or more candidates.
Groups mount their campaigns by letter, telephone, e-mail or word of mouth.
The court which first hears a case in which the facts are established after testimony by witnesses and the parties. A trial court usually includes a jury and judge as well as direct and cross examination of witnesses. A panel of judges which review the decision of the trial court based solely on its transcripts, legal arguments, legal briefs and applicable law. A party may appeal a decision of the trial court on the basis that a law or Constitutional right or principle was violated as a result of the lower court's decision. There are no witnesses or jury present.