Ap Gov - (Unit 2, CH 6 Quiz)

How are federal judges selected?

Federal judges are appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate.

How are state judges usually selected?

State judges are typically elected, often with the support of campaign funding.

What unique practice exists in the United States regarding judge selection?

The United States is the only country in the world that elects judges.

What has been the trend in state judicial election financing over the last thirty years?

There has been an increase in campaign contributions for state judicial elections, leading to concerns about judicial independence.

What was the key outcome of Caperton v. Massey Coal Co.?

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a judge must recuse himself due to the appearance of bias from campaign contributions.

What was significant about the ruling in Caperton v. Massey Coal Co.?

It reinforced judicial independence by asserting that the appearance of a conflict of interest violates due process.

What is the purpose of the appointment and confirmation process for federal judges?

To insulate judges from political pressures and ensure they do not have to seek favors to be appointed.

Why was Sonia Sotomayor considered one of the 'riskiest choices' for President Obama?

Due to her remarks about the influence of identity on judicial decision-making.

What delicate balance did Senate Republicans maintain during Sotomayor's confirmation?

They sought to criticize her without alienating women and Latino Republican voters.

What major agreement about the federal judiciary was reached at the Constitutional Convention?

Judges should have lifetime tenure, subject to 'good behavior'.

What is original jurisdiction?

The authority of a court to hear a case for the first time, determining facts and innocence or guilt.

What is appellate jurisdiction?

The authority of a court to review decisions made by lower courts.

What did Federalist No. 78 primarily argue?

It argued that the federal judiciary would not infringe upon individual rights but would serve as a check on the legislative and executive branches.

How did Alexander Hamilton argue that the Supreme Court poses less of a threat to liberty than the legislative or executive branches?

He argued the judiciary has only the power of judgment and lacks control over the sword or purse.

What was the Judiciary Act of 1789's role?

It established the organization of the federal court system.

What unique aspect of the Supreme Court is specified in the Constitution?

Only the position of Chief Justice is mentioned; the number of justices is left to Congress.

What does the term 'stare decisis' mean?

It refers to the legal principle of letting prior court decisions stand.

What does 'precedent' refer to in a legal context?

A judicial decision that serves as an authoritative rule for future cases.

What is the role of amicus curiae briefs?

They are submissions by non-parties to provide additional information or arguments for the court's consideration.

What is the 'rule of four'?

It is the principle that if four justices agree to hear a case, it will be granted certiorari.

What did President Andrew Jackson do in response to Worcester v. Georgia?

He ignored the Supreme Court's decision and enforced policies against the Cherokee Nation.

What does judicial activism refer to?

An interpretation of the law that encourages judges to create bold new policies.

What is one way the executive branch checks the judiciary?

The executive nominates justices, who must then be confirmed by the Senate.

What impact can a dissenting opinion have in future cases?

Dissenting opinions can provide a basis for future courts to reconsider and potentially overturn precedent.