Spot on.  Appellate courts are Mr. Fixits; there to take another look.

Article Three of the United States Constitution establishes the judicial branch of the U.S. federal government. Under Article III, the judicial branch consists of the Supreme Court of the United States, as well as lower courts created by Congress.

Seems to me, if created by Congress then they answer to Congress.  Moreover, what Congress creates it may eliminate.  But, the judicial system has become so political, you'd think power over the minor courts is covered in Art II. vs Art. I. 

I don't know what to say about Trump's lawyers being afraid.  I'd want my lawyer to be afraid:  Fear alerts the senses.