#1
Which principle suggests that similar cases should be decided similarly?
Stare decisis
ExplanationConsistency in judicial decisions based on precedent.
#2
Who has the authority to interpret laws and ensure their constitutionality in the United States?
Judicial Branch
ExplanationThe branch of government responsible for interpreting laws and upholding the Constitution.
#3
What is the term for a court's power to hear and decide a case?
Jurisdiction
ExplanationThe authority of a court to hear and rule on a case.
#4
Who appoints federal judges in the United States?
The President
ExplanationThe executive branch appoints federal judges.
#5
Which term describes a legal dispute between private parties?
Civil case
ExplanationLegal proceedings involving private individuals or entities.
#6
Which judicial philosophy emphasizes interpreting the law according to the original meaning of the Constitution?
Originalism
ExplanationInterpreting laws based on the original intent of the framers.
#7
In which landmark case did the U.S. Supreme Court establish the power of judicial review?
Marbury v. Madison
ExplanationEstablished the principle that courts can review and overturn laws.
#8
Which term refers to the power of the courts to determine if a law or action violates the Constitution?
Judicial Review
ExplanationThe authority of courts to invalidate laws deemed unconstitutional.
#9
In the United States, how many federal circuit courts of appeal are there?
12
ExplanationThere are 12 federal circuit courts of appeal.
#10
Who was the first woman to serve as a Justice on the U.S. Supreme Court?
Sandra Day O'Connor
ExplanationPioneering female jurist appointed to the Supreme Court.
#11
Who argued for the 'living Constitution' approach, suggesting that the Constitution should be interpreted in the context of contemporary society?
Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr.
ExplanationBelieved the Constitution should evolve with society's changing values.
#12
Who is considered the 'Father of the American Judiciary'?
John Jay
ExplanationOne of the Founding Fathers, pivotal in establishing the early American legal system.
#13
Who was the longest-serving Chief Justice of the United States?
William Rehnquist
ExplanationLongest-serving Chief Justice in U.S. history, known for his conservative jurisprudence.
#14
Who was the first African American to serve as a Justice on the U.S. Supreme Court?
Thurgood Marshall
ExplanationTrailblazing civil rights lawyer and jurist appointed to the Supreme Court.
#15
Who was the first Hispanic Justice appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court?
Sonia Sotomayor
ExplanationTrailblazing Hispanic jurist appointed to the Supreme Court.