#1
Which of the following is not a level of the United States federal court system?
State Courts
ExplanationState courts are not part of the federal court system.
#2
Who appoints federal judges in the United States?
The President
ExplanationFederal judges are appointed by the President.
#3
What is the highest court in the United States?
Supreme Court
ExplanationThe Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States.
#4
What does 'en banc' refer to in legal terms?
A trial with all judges of a court present
Explanation'En banc' refers to a trial with the full panel of judges present.
#5
What is the role of a grand jury in the United States legal system?
To hear preliminary evidence and decide if there is probable cause to proceed with a trial
ExplanationGrand juries hear evidence to determine if there's enough for a trial.
#6
What is the term for a legal principle that previous court decisions must be followed by judges in subsequent cases involving similar issues?
Stare decisis
ExplanationStare decisis is the principle of following precedent.
#7
What is the term for a legal document filed by a party to a lawsuit to answer or respond to allegations made by the opposing party?
Answer
ExplanationAn 'Answer' responds to allegations in a lawsuit.
#8
In a criminal trial, what is the standard of proof required for a conviction?
Beyond a reasonable doubt
ExplanationThe standard of proof in a criminal trial is 'beyond a reasonable doubt.'
#9
Which amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees the right to a fair trial?
Sixth Amendment
ExplanationThe Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to a fair trial.
#10
Which of the following is NOT a method of judicial selection in the United States?
Selection by lottery
ExplanationSelection by lottery is not a method of judicial selection.
#11
What is the purpose of the writ of certiorari in the United States Supreme Court?
To request a lower court to send up its record for review
ExplanationWrit of certiorari requests lower court records for review.
#12
Who serves as the chief legal officer of the United States government and represents the federal government in cases before the Supreme Court?
The Solicitor General
ExplanationThe Solicitor General serves as chief legal officer and represents the government in cases.
#13
Which of the following is NOT a power of the United States Supreme Court?
Impeaching federal officials
ExplanationThe Supreme Court does not have the power to impeach federal officials.
#14
What is the term for a legal proceeding in which parties settle their dispute without a formal trial?
Mediation
ExplanationMediation settles disputes without a formal trial.