AP gov judicial branch quiz

judicial review

the power of the Supreme Court to declare laws or government actions unconstitutional

judicial restraint

an approach where judges limit their own power, defer to elected branches, and avoid overturning laws unless they clearly violate the Constitution

judicial activism

an approach where judges interpret the Constitution broadly and are more willing to overturn laws to protect rights or promote justice

writ of certiorari

an order issued by the Supreme Court agreeing to hear and review a lower court’s case

amicus curiae brief

a “friend of the court” brief submitted by individuals or groups not directly involved in a case to offer information or arguments

stare decisis

the legal principle of following precedent — deciding cases consistently with previous court decisions