Exam Two Study Guide
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Which of the following Articles enumerates the powers of the Legislative Branch?
- A.
Article One
- B.
Article Two
- C.
Article Three
Correct Answer
A. Article OneExplanation
Article One enumerates the powers of the Legislative Branch. This article of the United States Constitution outlines the structure, powers, and limitations of the Congress, which is the legislative branch of the federal government. It establishes the two houses of Congress, the Senate and the House of Representatives, and outlines their respective powers, including the authority to make laws, impose taxes, regulate commerce, and declare war. Article One is crucial in defining the role and responsibilities of the legislative branch in the American system of government.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which of the following Articles enumerates the powers of the Executive Branch?
- A.
Article One
- B.
Article Two
- C.
Article Three
Correct Answer
B. Article TwoExplanation
Article Two of the Constitution enumerates the powers of the Executive Branch. This article outlines the powers and responsibilities of the President of the United States, such as serving as commander-in-chief of the military, appointing federal judges, and negotiating treaties. It also establishes the qualifications and term limits for the presidency. Overall, Article Two provides a framework for the Executive Branch to exercise its powers and carry out its duties in the government.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Check the following requirements to be a member of the Senate
- A.
Must own property
- B.
Must be at least 30 yrs old
- C.
Must live in the state that elects you
- D.
Must be a citizen
- E.
Must have lived in US 14 years before taking office
Correct Answer(s)
B. Must be at least 30 yrs old
C. Must live in the state that elects you
D. Must be a citizenExplanation
To be a member of the Senate, there are several requirements that must be met. First, the individual must be at least 30 years old. Second, they must live in the state that elects them to the Senate. Third, they must be a citizen of the country. Finally, they must have lived in the United States for at least 14 years before taking office. These requirements ensure that senators are mature, have a connection to the state they represent, are legally eligible to hold office, and have a sufficient understanding of the country's governance and policies.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Check the following requirements to be a member of the House
- A.
Must be 25 yrs old
- B.
Must have lived in the US for 14 years prior to election
- C.
Must live in the state that elects you
- D.
Must be a citizen
Correct Answer(s)
A. Must be 25 yrs old
C. Must live in the state that elects you
D. Must be a citizenExplanation
To be a member of the House, there are certain requirements that need to be met. Firstly, the individual must be at least 25 years old. Secondly, they must live in the state that elects them, meaning they must reside in the specific state they wish to represent. Lastly, they must be a citizen, indicating that they must hold citizenship in the United States. These criteria ensure that individuals who become members of the House are of a certain age, have a connection to the state they represent, and are legally eligible to hold office.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Reapportionment- the redistribution of house seats based on population changes
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Reapportionment refers to the process of redistributing the number of seats in the House of Representatives based on changes in population. This means that as population shifts occur, certain states may gain or lose seats in order to ensure fair representation. Therefore, the statement "Reapportionment- the redistribution of house seats based on population changes" is true.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Pork barrel- a form of reciprocity where “you vote for my bill and I’ll vote for yours”
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Pork Barreling is adding something to a piece of legislation that benefits the “folks back home” or the constituentsRate this question:
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- 7.
Gerrymandering- drawing district lines in such a way that advantages a political party; done by state legislatures
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Gerrymandering refers to the practice of manipulating the boundaries of electoral districts in order to benefit a particular political party. This is typically carried out by state legislatures, who have the authority to redraw district lines. By strategically designing these boundaries, politicians can ensure that their party has an advantage in elections. Therefore, the statement that gerrymandering is done by state legislatures and advantages a political party is true.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Free mailing privileges is called
Correct Answer
Franking
frankingExplanation
Franking refers to the privilege of sending mail free of charge. It is a system that allows individuals or organizations to mark their mail with a special stamp or imprint indicating that the postage has been paid. This allows them to send mail without having to affix postage stamps or pay for the postage separately. The term "franking" can be used to describe both the privilege itself and the physical mark or imprint on the mail.Rate this question:
- 9.
Where does all the work for bills get done?
Correct Answer
In committees
in committees
committeesExplanation
All the work for bills is done in committees. Committees are groups of individuals who are assigned to review, discuss, and make recommendations on bills before they are presented to the full legislative body for a vote. This is where the majority of the legislative process takes place, as committees have the expertise and time to thoroughly examine bills and make informed decisions. Therefore, committees play a crucial role in shaping legislation before it becomes law.Rate this question:
- 10.
Where does the bill start off?
Correct Answer
in standing committees
In standing committees
standing committeesExplanation
The bill starts off in standing committees. Standing committees are permanent committees in the legislative branch of government that are responsible for reviewing and considering bills before they are presented to the full chamber for a vote. This is where the bill is initially introduced, examined, and debated by committee members who have expertise in the specific subject matter of the bill. The committee may make amendments or revisions to the bill before sending it to the full chamber for further consideration.Rate this question:
- 11.
Factors influencing committee selection:
- A.
Reelection
- B.
Media Attention
- C.
Concern about the issue at hand
Correct Answer
B. Media AttentionExplanation
Media attention is a factor that influences committee selection because committees often want to address issues that are currently in the public eye. Media attention can bring visibility and public awareness to a particular issue, making it more likely for a committee to prioritize it. Additionally, media coverage can also put pressure on committee members to take action and address the concerns raised in the media. Therefore, media attention is an important factor that can influence the selection of committees.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which of the following are the unique powers of the House?
- A.
Bring impeachment charges
- B.
Ratify treaties
- C.
Originate tax bills
- D.
Confirm presidential appointments
- E.
Try impeachment charges
Correct Answer(s)
A. Bring impeachment charges
C. Originate tax billsExplanation
The unique powers of the House include the ability to bring impeachment charges and originate tax bills. Bringing impeachment charges is a power exclusive to the House, allowing them to accuse and initiate the process of removing a public official from office. Origination of tax bills is also a unique power of the House, meaning that all bills related to taxation must start in the House before they can be considered by the Senate.Rate this question:
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- 13.
What are the unique powers of the Senate?
- A.
Try impeachment charges
- B.
Originate tax bills
- C.
Confirm presidential appointments
- D.
Bring impeachment charges
- E.
Ratify treaties
Correct Answer(s)
A. Try impeachment charges
C. Confirm presidential appointments
E. Ratify treatiesExplanation
The unique powers of the Senate include the ability to try impeachment charges, confirm presidential appointments, and ratify treaties. The Senate serves as the jury in impeachment trials, deciding whether to remove the President or other federal officials from office. Additionally, the Senate has the authority to approve or reject appointments made by the President to key positions in the government. Furthermore, the Senate plays a crucial role in foreign policy by ratifying treaties negotiated by the President, ensuring their validity and implementation.Rate this question:
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- 14.
The War Powers Act was passed in response to what?
- A.
Invasion of Afghanistan
- B.
9/11
- C.
Invasion of Iraq
- D.
Presidential actions in Vietnam
Correct Answer
D. Presidential actions in VietnamExplanation
The War Powers Act was passed in response to Presidential actions in Vietnam. This act was enacted in 1973 to limit the power of the President to commit the United States to an armed conflict without the approval of Congress. It was a direct response to the Vietnam War, where President Lyndon B. Johnson and President Richard Nixon had escalated military involvement without a formal declaration of war from Congress. The Act aimed to restore the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches in matters of war and military intervention.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which amendment deals with Congress raising its pay but before the pay raise becomes effective, an election must intervene?
Correct Answer
27th Amendment
The 27th AmendmentExplanation
The 27th Amendment deals with Congress raising its pay, but before the pay raise becomes effective, an election must intervene. This means that if Congress wants to increase its own pay, they cannot do so immediately. Instead, they have to wait for the next election cycle before the pay raise can take effect. This amendment was added to ensure that there is a check on Congress's ability to give themselves salary increases without the approval of the voters.Rate this question:
- 16.
When we have divided government (when the president is of one party and Congress is of another, or when we have a divided Congress) a possible outgrowth of divided government is...?
- A.
Gerrymandering
- B.
Bi-partisanship
- C.
Gridlock
Correct Answer
C. GridlockExplanation
When we have divided government, where the president is of one party and Congress is of another, or when we have a divided Congress, a possible outgrowth is gridlock. Gridlock refers to a situation where there is a deadlock or inability to make progress on important legislative issues due to the conflicting interests and partisan divisions between the branches of government. This can result in a lack of cooperation, compromise, and the inability to pass meaningful legislation.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Constitutional requirements for selection of the president?
- A.
Must be at least 35 years old
- B.
Must be a natural born citizen
- C.
Must be at least 30 years old
- D.
Must live in US 14 years before taking office
Correct Answer(s)
A. Must be at least 35 years old
B. Must be a natural born citizen
D. Must live in US 14 years before taking officeExplanation
The constitutional requirements for the selection of the president are that the individual must be at least 35 years old, must be a natural born citizen, and must have lived in the US for at least 14 years before taking office. These requirements ensure that the president is of a certain age and has a significant connection to the country, both in terms of citizenship and residency.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Who confirms the President's appointments to offices?
Correct Answer(s)
The Senate
SenateExplanation
The Senate confirms the President's appointments to offices. This is a constitutional responsibility given to the Senate in order to ensure a system of checks and balances within the government. The confirmation process allows the Senate to thoroughly review and assess the qualifications and suitability of individuals nominated by the President for various positions. By confirming these appointments, the Senate plays a crucial role in shaping the composition of the executive branch and ensuring that qualified individuals are appointed to key positions in the government.Rate this question:
- 19.
What is the monetary amount that the President earns yearly? Is it comparable to chief executive corporal officers?
Correct Answer(s)
400,000 and no
400,000 no
400,000, noExplanation
The President earns a yearly salary of $400,000, which is the monetary amount mentioned in the answer. The answer also states "no" to the question of whether the President's salary is comparable to chief executive corporal officers. This implies that the President's salary is not comparable to the salaries of chief executive corporal officers, indicating that the President's salary is higher or lower than that of chief executive corporal officers.Rate this question:
- 20.
What are the five roles of the president?
Correct Answer(s)
Chief Legislator, Chief Administrator, Chief of State, Chief Diplomat, Commander-in-ChiefExplanation
The five roles of the president are Chief Legislator, Chief Administrator, Chief of State, Chief Diplomat, and Commander-in-Chief. As Chief Legislator, the president has the power to influence and shape legislation. As Chief Administrator, the president is responsible for overseeing the functioning of the executive branch and implementing policies. As Chief of State, the president represents the country and performs ceremonial duties. As Chief Diplomat, the president is in charge of conducting foreign policy and representing the nation in international relations. Lastly, as Commander-in-Chief, the president is the highest-ranking military officer and has control over the armed forces.Rate this question:
- 21.
The Chief Legislator Role allows the President to...?
- A.
Implement policy, appoint and remove executive officials, prepare the executive budget, and supervise the executive branch of government
- B.
Make treaties, exercise the power of diplomatic recognition, and make executive agreements
- C.
Represent the nation as a whole, grant reprieves and pardons, appoint federal court and Supreme court
- D.
Initiate policy, veto legislation, and convene a special session of Congress.
Correct Answer
D. Initiate policy, veto legislation, and convene a special session of Congress.Explanation
The Chief Legislator role allows the President to initiate policy, veto legislation, and convene a special session of Congress. This means that the President has the power to propose new policies and ideas, reject or veto bills passed by Congress, and call for a special meeting of Congress to address urgent issues. This role gives the President significant influence and control over the legislative process and allows them to shape the agenda and direction of the country.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The President's role as Chief Administrator allows him to....?
- A.
Make treaties, exercise the power of diplomatic recognition, and make executive agreements
- B.
Initiate policy, veto legislation, and convene a special session of Congress.
- C.
Implement policy, appoint and remove executive officials, prepare the executive budget, and supervise the executive branch of government.
- D.
Represent the nation as a whole, grant reprieves and pardons, appoint federal court and Supreme court
Correct Answer
C. Implement policy, appoint and remove executive officials, prepare the executive budget, and supervise the executive branch of government.Explanation
The President's role as Chief Administrator involves implementing policies, appointing and removing executive officials, preparing the executive budget, and supervising the executive branch of government. This means that the President is responsible for ensuring that government policies are carried out effectively, making key appointments within the executive branch, managing the budgetary process, and overseeing the operations of the executive branch.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The President's role as Chief of State allows him to...?
- A.
Represent the nation as a whole, grant reprieves and pardons, appoint federal court and Supreme court
- B.
Make treaties, exercise the power of diplomatic recognition, and make executive agreements
- C.
Initiate policy, veto legislation, and convene a special session of Congress.
- D.
Implement policy, appoint and remove executive officials, prepare the executive budget, and supervise the executive branch of government.
Correct Answer
A. Represent the nation as a whole, grant reprieves and pardons, appoint federal court and Supreme courtExplanation
The President's role as Chief of State involves representing the nation as a whole, granting reprieves and pardons, and appointing federal court and Supreme Court judges. This role requires the President to act as a symbol of national unity and to carry out ceremonial duties. Granting reprieves and pardons allows the President to exercise mercy and forgiveness in the criminal justice system. Additionally, the power to appoint federal court and Supreme Court judges enables the President to shape the judiciary branch of government and influence the interpretation of laws.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The Chief Diplomat Role allows the President to...?
- A.
Initiate policy, veto legislation, and convene a special session of Congress.
- B.
Implement policy, appoint and remove executive officials, prepare the executive budget, and supervise the executive branch of government.
- C.
Make treaties, exercise the power of diplomatic recognition, and make executive agreements
- D.
Represent the nation as a whole, grant reprieves and pardons, appoint federal court and Supreme court
Correct Answer
C. Make treaties, exercise the power of diplomatic recognition, and make executive agreementsExplanation
The Chief Diplomat Role allows the President to make treaties, exercise the power of diplomatic recognition, and make executive agreements. This role involves the President representing the nation in international affairs and negotiations. Making treaties involves negotiating and entering into agreements with other countries, which can have significant implications for foreign policy. The power of diplomatic recognition allows the President to acknowledge and establish official relations with other countries. Additionally, the President can make executive agreements, which are similar to treaties but do not require Senate approval. These actions help shape the United States' foreign relations and diplomacy.Rate this question:
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- 25.
As Commander-in-Chief, the president is in Command of the U.S. __________ forces. He can also appoint military officers.
Correct Answer
armedExplanation
As Commander-in-Chief, the president has authority and control over the armed forces of the United States. This includes the power to make decisions and give orders regarding military operations and strategies. Additionally, the president has the ability to appoint military officers, granting him further influence and control over the armed forces.Rate this question:
- 26.
This is said to come into play when a president is elected by a large majority of the popular vote. He is said to have a _______________ to carry out his policy initiatives.
Correct Answer
mandateExplanation
When a president is elected by a large majority of the popular vote, it is believed that he has a mandate to carry out his policy initiatives. This means that the president has a clear and strong public support for his proposed policies and is expected to implement them. The mandate gives the president the authority and legitimacy to pursue his agenda and make significant changes. It signifies that the people have given their approval and trust to the president's plans and expect him to fulfill his promises.Rate this question:
- 27.
Options when President is presented with legislation passed by Congress
- A.
Sign it
- B.
Veto it
- C.
Pocket veto it
- D.
Do nothing
Correct Answer(s)
A. Sign it
B. Veto it
C. Pocket veto it
D. Do nothingExplanation
When the President is presented with legislation passed by Congress, they have several options. They can choose to sign the legislation, which means they approve and support it, making it a law. Alternatively, they can veto the legislation, which means they reject and refuse to sign it, preventing it from becoming a law. Another option is a pocket veto, where the President takes no action on the legislation within a specific timeframe, effectively killing it. Lastly, the President can also choose to do nothing, in which case the legislation will automatically become law after a certain period of time, even without their signature.Rate this question:
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- 28.
The 25th amendment has to do with succession.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The 25th amendment of the United States Constitution indeed deals with succession. It outlines the procedures for filling a vacancy in the office of the Vice President, as well as the process for the President to transfer power temporarily to the Vice President in case of inability to discharge the duties of the office. The amendment also provides a mechanism for the Vice President and a majority of the Cabinet to declare the President unfit for office, leading to the transfer of power to the Vice President permanently.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The 22nd Amendment does not have to do with term limits.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The 22nd Amendment actually does have to do with term limits. It was ratified in 1951 and limits the number of times a person can be elected as President of the United States to two terms. This amendment was introduced in response to Franklin D. Roosevelt's four-term presidency, in order to prevent any future president from serving more than two terms in office. Therefore, the statement that the 22nd Amendment does not have to do with term limits is false.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Something the president issues to an agency of government on how to carry out the law, fulfills administrator role
Correct Answer
Executive order
executive orderExplanation
An executive order is a directive issued by the president to a government agency, instructing them on how to carry out a specific law or policy. This fulfills the president's role as an administrator, as they are responsible for ensuring that laws are implemented effectively. Executive orders have the force of law and can be used to bypass the legislative process, allowing the president to take immediate action on important issues. Therefore, the correct answer is executive order.Rate this question:
- 31.
Something the President enters into with another head of state, but it doesn’t require Senate approval
Correct Answer
Executive agreement
executive agreementExplanation
An executive agreement is a type of agreement that the President enters into with another head of state without requiring Senate approval. Unlike treaties, which do require Senate approval, executive agreements are typically used for matters of lesser importance or urgency. This allows the President to negotiate and make agreements more efficiently and quickly, without the need for lengthy approval processes.Rate this question:
- 32.
Marbury versus Madison established what?
Correct Answer
Judicial Review
judicial review
judiciary reviewExplanation
Marbury versus Madison established the concept of judicial review. This landmark Supreme Court case in 1803 affirmed the Court's power to review and invalidate laws or actions that are found to be unconstitutional. It established the principle that the judiciary has the authority to interpret the Constitution and serve as a check on the other branches of government. The correct answer is "Judicial Review."Rate this question:
- 33.
Which of these is the definition of Judicial Review?
- A.
The authority to review law: constitution federal and state as well as actions of the president and congress and state legislatures and federal executives
- B.
Something the pres enters into with another head of state, but it doesn’t require Senate approval
- C.
Something the president issues to an agency of government on how to carry out the law, administrator role
Correct Answer
A. The authority to review law: constitution federal and state as well as actions of the president and congress and state legislatures and federal executives -
- 34.
The history of the Supreme Court is that the tend to follow previously established laws.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Although slightly true, the trend of history is that the Supreme Court are law makers, policy makers.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Which of the following courts has both appellate and original jurisdiction?
- A.
District Courts
- B.
Supreme Court
- C.
Appellate Courts
Correct Answer
B. Supreme CourtExplanation
The Supreme Court has both appellate and original jurisdiction. As the highest court in the United States, it has the power to hear appeals from lower courts, which is its appellate jurisdiction. Additionally, the Supreme Court has original jurisdiction in certain cases, meaning it has the authority to hear cases for the first time, without them being previously heard in lower courts. This dual jurisdiction sets the Supreme Court apart from other courts, such as District Courts and Appellate Courts, which generally have either appellate or original jurisdiction.Rate this question:
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- 36.
There are how many District Courts?
- A.
50- one per state
- B.
88- multiple per state
- C.
100- one per senator
- D.
94- one per state
Correct Answer
D. 94- one per stateExplanation
The correct answer is 94- one per state. District Courts are the trial courts of the federal judicial system in the United States. Each state has at least one District Court, and there are a total of 94 District Courts in the country. These courts handle a wide range of federal cases, including civil and criminal matters, and serve as the entry point for most federal litigation.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Courts of Appeal
- A.
Aka circuit courts
- B.
Have original jurisdiction
- C.
Have appellate jurisdiction
- D.
92 of them
- E.
12 of them
- F.
21 of them
Correct Answer(s)
A. Aka circuit courts
C. Have appellate jurisdiction
E. 12 of themExplanation
Courts of Appeal, also known as circuit courts, have appellate jurisdiction, meaning they have the authority to review and hear appeals from lower courts. There are a total of 92 Courts of Appeal in the judicial system. However, the answer specifically mentions that there are 12 of them, which could be referring to a specific subset or district within the Courts of Appeal.Rate this question:
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- 38.
District Courts
- A.
12 of them
- B.
21 of them
- C.
94 of them
- D.
Have appellate jurisdiction
- E.
Have original jurisdiction
- F.
Deal with federal crimes
Correct Answer(s)
C. 94 of them
E. Have original jurisdiction
F. Deal with federal crimesExplanation
District Courts are the trial courts of the federal judicial system in the United States. There are a total of 94 District Courts, one in each federal judicial district. These courts have original jurisdiction, meaning they are the first to hear and decide on a case. Additionally, District Courts deal with federal crimes, which are offenses that violate federal laws rather than state laws. Therefore, the correct answer is that 94 District Courts have original jurisdiction and deal with federal crimes.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Which circuit has Texas, Louisianna, and Mississippi?
- A.
The 12th
- B.
The 15th
- C.
The 7th
- D.
The 5th
Correct Answer
D. The 5thExplanation
The 5th circuit is the correct answer because it includes the states of Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Each circuit represents a specific geographical area in the United States, and the 5th circuit encompasses these three states.Rate this question:
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- 40.
Appellate jurisdiction is the right to hear a case for the first time.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
That is original jurisdiction.Rate this question:
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- 41.
Calling up the lower case record is called....?
Correct Answer
writ of certiorari - 42.
"Friend of the court" briefs, designed to influence judicial decisions...?
Correct Answer
amicus curiaeExplanation
"Friend of the court" briefs, known as amicus curiae, are legal documents filed by individuals or organizations who are not directly involved in a case but have a strong interest in the outcome. These briefs are submitted to provide additional information or arguments that may influence the court's decision. The purpose of amicus curiae briefs is to offer a different perspective, expertise, or insight that can help the court make a well-informed decision. By participating in this way, the individuals or organizations hope to shape the outcome of the case in a manner that aligns with their interests or beliefs.Rate this question:
- 43.
Literally "let the decision stand"
Correct Answer
stare decisisExplanation
Stare decisis is a legal principle that means "let the decision stand." It refers to the practice of courts following precedent and making decisions based on previous rulings. This principle ensures consistency and stability in the legal system by promoting predictability and fairness. It allows for the development of legal principles over time and provides guidance for judges when interpreting and applying the law. By adhering to stare decisis, courts respect and uphold the decisions of higher courts, creating a hierarchy of authority and promoting the rule of law.Rate this question:
- 44.
The Judiciary Act of 1789 created the three tier court system.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The Judiciary Act of 1789 did indeed establish the three-tier court system in the United States. This act was passed by Congress and signed into law by President George Washington. It created the structure of the federal judiciary, which consists of the Supreme Court at the top, followed by the circuit courts of appeals, and then the district courts at the lowest level. This system has been in place since then and forms the backbone of the federal court system in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 45.
What is the difference between criminal and civil court cases/law?
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