#1
Which court is considered the highest judicial authority in the United States?
Supreme Court
ExplanationThe highest court with final authority on interpreting the law and determining constitutionality.
#2
Who appoints federal judges in the United States?
The President
ExplanationExecutive branch appoints federal judges with Senate approval.
#3
Which of the following is not a level of the federal court system in the United States?
County Court
ExplanationCounty courts are not part of the federal court system.
#4
What is the term for a legal case brought to enforce, redress, or protect rights of private litigants, without government intervention?
Civil Case
ExplanationLegal disputes between private parties seeking resolution or compensation.
#5
What is the term for a legal principle that prohibits the government from punishing individuals for conduct that was not considered criminal at the time it was performed?
Ex Post Facto Law
ExplanationLaws retroactively punishing actions that were not illegal when committed.
#6
What is the term for the power of the courts to review and, if necessary, declare actions of the legislative and executive branches invalid or unconstitutional?
Judicial Review
ExplanationCourts' authority to review laws and executive actions for constitutionality.
#7
In which type of legal system does the judge primarily focus on interpreting laws and applying them to specific cases?
Common Law System
ExplanationLegal system where judges rely heavily on precedent and case law.
#8
Which amendment of the United States Constitution provides the right to a trial by jury in civil cases?
Seventh Amendment
ExplanationEnsures the right to a jury trial in civil cases involving disputes over $20 or more.
#9
What is the term for a decision made by a higher court that is binding on lower courts?
Precedent
ExplanationLegal rulings serving as authoritative examples for future similar cases.
#10
What is the term for a legal document that initiates a lawsuit?
Complaint
ExplanationFormal legal document stating the plaintiff's grievances and demands.
#11
What is the term for a legal principle that requires previous judicial decisions to be followed by the courts in future cases presenting similar issues?
Stare Decisis
ExplanationCourts follow precedents to maintain consistency and predictability in the law.
#12
In which type of legal system do judges have the authority to interpret the law and develop legal principles through their decisions?
Common Law System
ExplanationJudicial decisions play a significant role in shaping and interpreting the law.
#13
What is the term for a court's power to hear and decide a case before any appellate review?
Original Jurisdiction
ExplanationCourts' authority to hear cases initially, without prior decisions by higher courts.
#14
Which of the following is not a function of the appellate court?
Conducting trials
ExplanationAppellate courts review lower court decisions but do not conduct trials.
#15
In the United States, which court has the power of judicial review to determine the constitutionality of laws?
Supreme Court
ExplanationFinal authority to interpret the Constitution and review laws' constitutionality.