Constitutional Law Key Terms

A set of 40 vocabulary flashcards covering essential Constitutional Law terms and principles for exam preparation.

Constitution

The supreme law of the United States that sets the framework of government and protects citizens’ rights.

Preamble

The opening statement of the constitution that explains its purpose and guiding principles.

Separation of Powers

Division of government into three branches legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

Checks and Balances

A system where each branch of government can limit the powers
of the others to prevent abuse.

Popular Sovereignty

The idea that government power comes from the people.

Rule of Law

The principle that everyone, including government officials, must follow the law.

Amendment

A formal change or addition to the Constitution.

Ratification

The process by which a proposed amendment or document is formally approved.

Congress

The legislative branch of the federal government, made up of the Senate and House of Representatives.

House of Representatives

One chamber of Congress; members are elected based on
state population.

Senate

The upper chamber of Congress; each state has two senators.

Enumerated Powers

Powers specifically granted to Congress in the Constitution
(Article I, Section 8).

Elastic Clause

Also known as the Necessary and Proper Clause; allows Congress to make laws needed to carry out its powers.

Commerce Clause

Gives Congress the power to regulate trade among the states and
with foreign nations.

Impeachment

The process by which the House charges a federal official, including the President, with wrongdoing.

Appropriations

Laws that authorize the spending of government money.

Executive Branch

The branch of government that enforces laws, led by the President.

President

The head of the executive branch and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces.

Vice President

The second-highest executive officer; also presides over the Senate.

Electoral College

The second-highest executive officer; also presides over the Senate.

Cabinet

Group of presidential advisers who lead executive departments.

Veto

President’s power to reject a bill passed by Congress.

Treaty

Formal agreement with another country, negotiated by the President and approved by the Senate.

Executive Order

Rule issued by the President that has the force of law without congressional approval.

Judicial Branch

Branch that interprets laws and ensures justice under the Constitution.

Supreme Court

Highest federal court in the United States.

Federal Courts

Courts established by Congress that deal with national legal issues.

Original Jurisdiction

When a court hears a case for the first time.

Appellate Jurisdiction

When a higher court reviews a decision made by a lower court.

Judicial Review

Power of courts to declare laws or government actions unconstitutional. (Established in Marbury vs. Madison)

Bill of Rights

First 10 amendments to the Constitution protecting individual liberties.

Freedom of Speech

Right to express ideas without government interference (1st Amendment).

Right to Bear Arms

Right to own and carry weapons (2nd Amendment).

Search and Seizure

Protection against unreasonable searches by the government (4th Amendment).

Due Process

Fair treatment through the judicial system (5th and 14th amendments)

Double Jeopardy

Protection against being tried twice for the same offense (5th Amendment).

Cruel and Unusual Punishment

Prohibited by the 8th Amendment.

Right to a Fair Trial

Includes speedy, public trial by jury and legal counsel (6th Amendment).

Federalism

A System in which power is divided between national and state governments.

Reserved Powers

Powers not granted to the federal government by the constitution are reserved for the states (10th Amendment).