#1
Which principle asserts that an accused person is innocent until proven guilty?
Presumption of innocence
ExplanationLegal principle treating the accused as innocent until proven guilty in court.
#2
Which court has the authority to review decisions made by lower courts?
Appellate court
ExplanationCourt with the power to review and potentially overturn decisions made by lower courts.
#3
What is the term for a legal dispute between two parties that is heard and resolved in court?
Civil case
ExplanationLegal dispute between private parties, resolved in court.
#4
What is the highest court in the United States federal judiciary?
Supreme court
ExplanationHighest judicial body in the US federal system, with ultimate appellate jurisdiction.
#5
Which amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees the right to a trial by jury?
Sixth Amendment
ExplanationConstitutional amendment ensuring the right to a trial by jury in criminal cases.
#6
What does 'voir dire' refer to in legal proceedings?
Process of selecting a jury
ExplanationProcedure where attorneys question potential jurors to ensure impartiality and suitability.
#7
What is the term for a written order issued by a judge commanding someone to do something or to refrain from doing something?
Injunction
ExplanationCourt-ordered directive requiring a specific action or forbearance from a party.
#8
Which legal principle allows previous court decisions to guide current judicial interpretation?
Stare decisis
ExplanationLegal principle of relying on past court decisions to inform present interpretations and decisions.
#9
What is the term for a legal defense where the defendant argues that they were somewhere else at the time the crime was committed?
Alibi
ExplanationLegal defense asserting the defendant's presence elsewhere during the commission of the crime.
#10
In a criminal trial, what is the burden of proof required for a conviction?
Beyond a reasonable doubt
ExplanationHighest standard of proof required in criminal cases, demanding no reasonable doubt of guilt.
#11
What legal doctrine allows higher courts to refuse to hear an appeal from a lower court?
Certiorari
ExplanationAuthority of higher courts to choose which cases to review from lower courts.
#12
What term describes a legal rule that forbids a person from asserting or denying a fact because of their own previous conduct?
Estoppel
ExplanationLegal doctrine preventing a party from asserting something contrary to what was previously stated or implied.
#13
Which legal doctrine allows courts to enforce contracts even if they lack consideration?
Promissory estoppel
ExplanationDoctrine allowing courts to enforce contracts due to reliance on a promise, even without consideration.
#14
What legal doctrine allows courts to refuse to enforce contracts that are considered unconscionable or excessively unfair?
Doctrine of unconscionability
ExplanationLegal principle enabling courts to reject contracts deemed unreasonably oppressive or unfair.