AP Government: Essential Court Cases - In-Depth Study Guide

Flashcards covering key court cases and concepts related to constitutional foundations, civil liberties, civil rights, and election laws.

Judicial Review

The power of the courts to determine the constitutionality of laws.

Commerce Clause

Gives Congress the power to regulate trade between states.

Exclusionary Rule

Evidence obtained illegally cannot be used in court.

Incorporation Doctrine

Application of Bill of Rights protections to the states through the 14th Amendment.

Clear and Present Danger Test

Standard to limit free speech if it poses an immediate threat.

Lemon Test

Three-pronged test to determine if a law violates the Establishment Clause.

Strict Scrutiny

Highest standard of review used by courts to evaluate laws that infringe on constitutional rights.

Symbolic Speech

Nonverbal expression protected under the First Amendment.

Undue Burden Test

States can regulate abortions unless they impose substantial obstacles.

McCulloch v. Maryland

Confirmed the supremacy of national over state government and the use of implied powers.

Brown v. Board of Education

Overturned the 'separate but equal' doctrine in public education.

Gideon v. Wainwright

Guaranteed right to an attorney for all felony cases in state courts.

Miranda v. Arizona

Required police to inform suspects of their rights before questioning.

Tinker v. Des Moines

Students have free speech rights at school unless it causes material disruption.

Roe v. Wade

Women have a constitutional right to abortion under privacy.

Texas v. Johnson

Flag burning is protected symbolic speech under the First Amendment.

Buckley v. Valeo

Individuals can spend unlimited money on their own campaigns.

United States v. Nixon

Limited executive privilege; president must comply with subpoenas in criminal cases.

California Regents v. Bakke

Racial quotas unconstitutional, but race can be considered as one factor.

Gibbons v. Ogden

Only the federal government can regulate interstate commerce.