Appeals involving the death penalty, life imprisonment or imprisonment for 20 years or more go directly from Circuit Court to the Supreme Court. All other appeals must first be heard by the Court of Appeals, except those so exceptional that the Supreme Court will grant a request to bypass the Court of Appeals. Appeals from the Court of Appeals, except workers' compensation appeals, reach the Supreme Court only with the court's permission.

Seven justices sit on the Supreme Court and all seven justices rule on appeals before the court. The justices are elected from seven appellate districts and serve eight-year terms. A chief justice, chosen for a four-year term by fellow justices, is the administrative head of the state's court system and is responsible for its operation. In addition, the Supreme Court establishes rules of practice and procedure for all Kentucky judges and attorneys.