The Supreme Court of the Russian Federation is the highest court within the system of courts of general jurisdiction, that is in relation to the supreme courts of the subjects of the Russian Federation as well as regional courts, courts of cities with federal status, courts of autonomous provinces and regions, and military tribunals.
It also acts as a first instance court in some limited cases, and as a second instance court in cases where supreme courts of the subjects of the Russian Federation as well as regional courts, courts of cities with federal status, courts of autonomous regions handled the case as the first instance court. The Supreme Court also reviews cases in a supervisory procedure and cases reopened on newly found circumstances.
The Supreme Court has a Plenum, Presidium, Civil and Criminal Departments and Court Administration Department.
The Plenum is composed of all judges of the Supreme Court plus the Prosecutor General and other officials. The issuing of “explanatory guidance” is its most important function. The Presidium comprises the President, deputies, heads of the departments. It reviews cases by way of supervision.