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Sources and Foundations of American Law Quiz

#1

Which document outlines the fundamental principles and establishes the structure, procedures, powers, and duties of the government?

Constitution
Explanation

Foundation of government structure and principles.

#2

What legal principle ensures that similar cases are decided similarly, providing stability and predictability in the legal system?

Stare Decisis
Explanation

Consistent legal decisions for stability.

#3

Which legal concept refers to the power of a court to hear and decide a case?

Jurisdiction
Explanation

Authority to hear and decide cases.

#4

Which legal concept presumes innocence until proven guilty and places the burden of proof on the prosecution?

Presumption of Innocence
Explanation

Assumption of innocence, burden on prosecution.

#5

Which legal doctrine allows the court to order a party to perform a specific action or to refrain from doing a particular act?

Injunction
Explanation

Court order for specific action or refraining.

#6

Who is often referred to as the 'Father of the Constitution' for his role in drafting the United States Constitution?

James Madison
Explanation

Key figure in drafting the Constitution.

#7

Which principle in the Constitution divides the powers of government between the national government and state governments?

Federalism
Explanation

Division of powers between national and state levels.

#8

Which landmark case established the principle of judicial review, allowing the Supreme Court to declare laws unconstitutional?

Marbury v. Madison
Explanation

Established judicial review.

#9

What legal term refers to laws that retroactively criminalize conduct that was legal when it occurred?

Ex Post Facto
Explanation

Laws that retroactively criminalize conduct.

#10

In the United States, what document protects an individual's rights against self-incrimination and double jeopardy?

Bill of Rights
Explanation

Protects against self-incrimination and double jeopardy.

#11

What legal term refers to the intentional false communication that harms a person's reputation?

Defamation
Explanation

Intentional false communication harming reputation.

#12

What is the highest court in the United States responsible for interpreting the Constitution and federal laws?

Supreme Court
Explanation

Interprets Constitution and federal laws.

#13

Which amendment to the Constitution guarantees the right to a fair and speedy trial by jury?

Sixth Amendment
Explanation

Ensures fair and speedy trial by jury.

#14

Which amendment protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures and requires warrants based on probable cause?

Fourth Amendment
Explanation

Protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.

#15

What legal doctrine holds that the government is immune from being sued unless it consents to being sued?

Sovereign Immunity
Explanation

Government immunity from lawsuits without consent.

#16

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

Legislative
Explanation

Responsible for law-making.

#17

What legal doctrine allows a higher court to review the decisions of a lower court?

Appellate Jurisdiction
Explanation

Higher court's review of lower court decisions.

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