In what scenario does the Supreme Court usually exercise appellate jurisdiction?

The Supreme Court primarily exercises appellate jurisdiction in cases that have been appealed from lower courts. This process allows the Supreme Court to review decisions made by lower courts to ensure that the law has been applied correctly and that legal standards have been appropriately upheld.

In appellate cases, the Supreme Court typically doesn't conduct new trials or hear new evidence; instead, it evaluates the legal principles and constitutional issues involved in the case based on the records and evidence presented in lower court proceedings. This role is crucial because it establishes precedents and helps maintain uniformity in legal interpretations across the judicial system.

The other scenarios presented do not align with the Supreme Court's traditional role concerning appellate jurisdiction. Initial hearings typically involve lower courts, while state disputes and constitutional amendments might not directly involve appellate review unless they arise from lower court decisions. This distinction highlights the critical function the Supreme Court serves in the judicial hierarchy through its appellate jurisdiction.