Federal Court System

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the Federal Court System, including types of courts, jurisdiction, and the processes within the Supreme Court.

Federal Court System

The judiciary created by Article III of the U.S. Constitution, including both federal and state courts.

Constitutional Courts

Courts established under Article III of the Constitution, including the Supreme Court, Courts of Appeals, District Courts, and Court of International Trade.

Exclusive Jurisdiction

Court authority that only federal courts have to hear certain cases, such as those involving ambassadors and federal officials.

Concurrent Jurisdiction

Shared authority allowing both federal and state courts to hear a particular case.

Original Jurisdiction

The power of a court to hear a case for the first time.

Appellate Jurisdiction

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

Judicial Review

The Supreme Court's power to declare laws unconstitutional, established by Marbury v. Madison.

Writ of Certiorari

An order by the Supreme Court to a lower court to send up the records of a case for review.

Solicitor General

The attorney representing the U.S. government in Supreme Court cases.

Majority Opinion

The final decision of the Supreme Court that represents the view of the majority of justices.

Concurring Opinion

An opinion written by a justice who agrees with the majority decision but for different reasons.

Dissenting Opinion

An opinion written by justices who disagree with the majority ruling, which may influence future cases.