A judicial proceeding that disregards previous court decisions is known as a fresh trial. In this type of review, the reviewing court does not defer to the prior tribunal’s factual or legal conclusions. Evidence is presented anew, and the case is determined as if no prior decision had been rendered. For instance, an appeal from a municipal court to a superior court might involve this type of proceeding, where the superior court independently evaluates the evidence and legal arguments.
This process offers a significant safeguard, ensuring individuals have an opportunity for a complete and unbiased assessment of their case, irrespective of potential errors or limitations in the initial hearing. Historically, it has served as a mechanism to correct potential injustices originating from lower courts or administrative bodies lacking comprehensive legal expertise or resources. The availability of a fresh adjudication guarantees a higher standard of due process.