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Legal Precedent and Judicial Processes Quiz

#1

What is the Latin term commonly used to refer to previous legal decisions that serve as a guide for future cases?

Stare decisis
Explanation

Principle of following precedent for consistency and stability in the law.

#2

In the United States federal court system, what is the highest court?

Supreme Court
Explanation

The apex court for interpreting federal law and the Constitution.

#3

What is the term for a legal document filed by a plaintiff to initiate a lawsuit?

Complaint
Explanation

Formal allegation outlining the plaintiff's grievances and claims.

#4

What term refers to a written explanation of a court's decision in a case?

Opinion
Explanation

Detailed reasoning behind a court's ruling.

#5

What is the term for a legal proceeding in which a debtor's assets are distributed to creditors to satisfy debts?

Bankruptcy
Explanation

Legal process for managing debts when unable to repay creditors.

#6

Which type of law deals with disputes between individuals or organizations, where one party seeks compensation or damages from another?

Civil law
Explanation

Legal system focusing on private rights and remedies.

#7

Which court case established the principle of judicial review in the United States?

Marbury v. Madison
Explanation

Landmark case affirming the judiciary's power to review laws' constitutionality.

#8

Which of the following is NOT a common method of legal interpretation?

Stare decisis
Explanation

Stare decisis is a principle, not a method, involving precedent.

#9

In a court case, what is the term for a request made by a party to a judge before, during, or after a trial?

Motion
Explanation

A formal request asking the court to make a ruling or take some action.

#10

Which landmark case established the right to counsel for criminal defendants in the United States?

Gideon v. Wainwright
Explanation

Case ensuring the Sixth Amendment right to legal representation.

#11

What term refers to a situation where a higher court agrees to hear an appeal from a lower court?

Certiorari
Explanation

Legal review granted by a higher court to consider a lower court's decision.

#12

In which type of legal system do judges have the authority to interpret the law and make legal decisions independently?

Common law system
Explanation

Legal system where judicial decisions form the basis of law.

#13

What is the term for a legal principle that bars a party from re-litigating an issue that has already been decided in previous litigation?

Res judicata
Explanation

Legal doctrine preventing the same issue from being re-litigated.

#14

What is the term for a legal doctrine that prevents a person from asserting a claim or right that contradicts what they have previously said or done?

Estoppel
Explanation

Legal principle preventing inconsistent arguments or assertions.

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