Understanding Federal and Texas Court Systems | Quizlet

What is the main focus of the federal court system topic?

The structure of the different levels of federal courts, how judges are selected, and the types of cases each can hear, especially the Supreme Court.

What historical documents influenced the development of federal courts?

Articles of Confederation, the Constitution, and legislation by Congress.

What is the relationship between state and federal courts?

They operate within a dual court system.

What are the main levels of federal courts?

District courts, circuit courts, Supreme Court, and specialized courts.

How are federal judges selected and removed?

They are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate; they can be removed through impeachment.

What role do federal courts play in the system of checks and balances?

They interpret laws and ensure that no branch of government exceeds its authority.

How do cases reach the Supreme Court?

Through writs of certiorari, appeals, and original jurisdiction.

What factors influence which cases the Supreme Court is more likely to hear?

Cases involving significant constitutional questions, conflicts among lower courts, and issues of national importance.

What is judicial review?

The power of courts to declare laws unconstitutional, established by Marbury v. Madison.

What are the types of Texas courts?

Local trial courts, county trial courts, state trial courts, intermediate appellate courts, and courts of last resort.

What concerns exist regarding the Texas court system?

Issues related to funding, caseload, and the death penalty.

What is the definition of civil liberties?

The protections against government actions that infringe on individual freedoms.

What is selective incorporation?

The process by which the Bill of Rights is applied to the states through the Fourteenth Amendment.

What are some limitations on freedom of speech?

Clear and present danger, imminent lawless action, obscenity, and commercial speech.

What is the Establishment Clause?

A clause in the First Amendment that prohibits the government from establishing a religion.

What is the Free Exercise Clause?

A clause in the First Amendment that protects individuals' rights to practice their religion freely.

What rights are protected during the suspicion phase of law enforcement?

Rights related to search and seizure, including the exclusionary rule and warrants.

What rights are guaranteed during the trial phase?

The right to a speedy, public trial, the right to counsel, and the right to confront witnesses.

What is the constitutional basis for the right to privacy?

Implied through various amendments, including the First, Third, Fourth, and Ninth Amendments.

What is the definition of civil rights?

The rights of individuals to receive equal treatment under the law.

What historical events contributed to the development of civil rights?

The Declaration of Independence, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Acts.

What was the significance of Brown v. Board of Education?

It declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional.

What is the Supreme Court's standard for evaluating race cases?

Strict scrutiny, which requires a compelling governmental interest.

What landmark legislation addressed women's rights in the workplace?

The 1963 Equal Pay Act and the 1964 Civil Rights Act.

What is the standard for evaluating gender cases in the Supreme Court?

Intermediate scrutiny, which requires that gender classifications serve an important government objective.

What does the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guarantee?

Protection against discrimination for individuals with disabilities and ensures access to public services.

What is the rational basis test?

A standard of review used by courts to evaluate laws that classify individuals based on age or disability.