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Legal Systems and Judiciary Quiz

#1

Which of the following best describes the function of a judge in a legal system?

To interpret and apply laws
Explanation

Judges interpret and apply laws to resolve disputes and administer justice.

#2

What is the highest court in the United States?

Supreme Court
Explanation

The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States, with final authority on interpreting the Constitution and federal law.

#3

What is the role of a jury in a trial?

To render a verdict based on evidence
Explanation

Juries assess evidence presented during a trial and render a verdict based on the facts presented and the applicable law.

#4

Which branch of government is responsible for interpreting laws in the United States?

Judicial
Explanation

The judicial branch of government, which includes courts and judges, is responsible for interpreting laws and ensuring their application in accordance with the Constitution.

#5

Which principle of law states that a person is innocent until proven guilty?

Presumption of innocence
Explanation

The presumption of innocence is a legal principle that holds an accused person is considered innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

#6

Which legal system is based on precedents and past decisions?

Common law system
Explanation

Common law systems rely on precedents and past judicial decisions to guide current interpretation and application of the law.

#7

What is the term for a serious criminal offense, typically punishable by imprisonment or death?

Felony
Explanation

A felony is a serious criminal offense that typically carries significant penalties such as imprisonment or, in some cases, death.

#8

In which type of legal system are laws primarily codified and written statutes are the primary source of law?

Civil law system
Explanation

Civil law systems rely heavily on codified laws and statutes enacted by legislative bodies as the primary source of law.

#9

What does 'pro bono' mean in legal terms?

For the good
Explanation

'Pro bono' refers to legal services provided voluntarily and without payment to clients who cannot afford legal representation.

#10

Which legal concept refers to a legal decision made by a higher court that must be followed by lower courts in the same jurisdiction?

Precedent
Explanation

A precedent is a legal decision made by a higher court that serves as a rule or guide for similar cases in the future.

#11

Which principle states that a person cannot be tried for the same crime twice?

Double jeopardy
Explanation

Double jeopardy is the legal principle that protects individuals from being tried or punished twice for the same offense after an acquittal or conviction.

#12

What is the purpose of the writ of habeas corpus?

To prevent unlawful detention
Explanation

The writ of habeas corpus is a legal action that requires a person under arrest to be brought before a judge or into court to secure release unless lawful grounds are shown for their detention.

#13

Which term refers to a legal system where judges are bound to follow the decisions of higher courts in similar cases?

Stare decisis
Explanation

Stare decisis is a legal doctrine that requires judges to follow the precedent established by prior court decisions in similar cases, ensuring consistency and stability in the law.

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