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Principles and Foundations of Common Law Quiz

#1

What is the highest court in the United States?

Supreme Court
Explanation

Highest judicial body with ultimate authority over federal laws.

#2

Which of the following is NOT a source of Common Law?

Regulations
Explanation

Regulations are rules issued by agencies, not part of common law originating from judicial decisions.

#3

In the Common Law system, what is the primary role of the jury?

Determine guilt or innocence
Explanation

Jury serves as fact-finder in trials, deciding factual disputes.

#4

Which legal system heavily relies on written codes and statutes?

Civil Law
Explanation

Legal system based on comprehensive codes and statutes rather than judicial decisions.

#5

In which country did the common law system originate?

England
Explanation

Originated in England and spread to various English-speaking nations.

#6

Which legal system emphasizes the importance of judicial decisions in guiding future interpretations of the law?

Common Law
Explanation

Relies on precedents and judicial decisions for legal guidance and development.

#7

What is the Latin term for 'let the decision stand'?

Stare decisis
Explanation

Doctrine guiding courts to follow precedents and maintain consistency.

#8

Which English monarch is credited with the establishment of the common law system?

King Henry II
Explanation

Introduced uniform laws through judges in England.

#9

What term refers to the power of courts to interpret and apply the law?

Judicial Review
Explanation

Authority of courts to determine constitutionality and legality of laws.

#10

Which principle of Common Law suggests that similar cases should be decided similarly?

Stare decisis
Explanation

Consistency principle ensuring predictability and stability in legal decisions.

#11

What is the process by which a higher court reviews a decision of a lower court?

Appeal
Explanation

Mechanism for parties dissatisfied with lower court decisions to seek review.

#12

Who has the authority to create new laws in a common law system?

Legislative branch
Explanation

Elected body responsible for drafting and passing laws.

#13

What is the main distinction between common law and civil law systems?

The use of precedent
Explanation

Common law relies heavily on judicial precedent, whereas civil law relies more on statutes and codes.

#14

Which doctrine allows courts to refuse to hear a case if it believes the matter would be better resolved by another forum?

Forum non conveniens
Explanation

Doctrine allowing courts to dismiss cases for convenience, often due to jurisdictional issues.

#15

What term describes a legal principle that protects individuals from being tried twice for the same offense?

Double jeopardy
Explanation

Constitutional protection against multiple prosecutions for the same offense.

#16

What is the term for a legal principle that allows courts to enforce contracts even if they are not in writing?

Promissory estoppel
Explanation

Doctrine preventing parties from denying promises that induce reliance.

#17

What term describes a legal principle that holds a person responsible for the consequences of their actions, regardless of their intentions?

Strict liability
Explanation

Legal responsibility irrespective of fault or intent.

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