Judging varies, depending on the event.
Sometimes the judges are quite qualified ... and sometimes they know pretty much nothing!
I know one who was a quilt judge, and had never made a quilt.
Yes, she knew how to sew, but now admits that she knew nothing about quilting when she judged.
Whereas, some shows, the judges have met the national standardized qualifications.
Part of those standards requires them to give quality feedback, both positive and for improvements too.
Some judges only "place" quilts. Some give comments.
Sometimes lots of comments. Sometimes both good and bad.
Sometimes they can be very critical, without even saying anything good!
I have experienced all sorts of judging .....
Sometimes you just need a thick skin, and the ability to just ignore what they say!
The best way to find out how your quilt(s) will be judged, what you will find out as a result, how skilled the judge is, etc. would be to contact the show contact and ask the questions you have.
Likewise about the appraisal .... varies.
Your local people should be able to give you much more accurate info, than any of us here on the QB can.