CJ Today CH7 Key Terms

appellate courts

Courts that review decisions made by lower courts.

attorney-client privilege

The legal rule that keeps communications between a lawyer and their client confidential.

attorney general

The top legal officer of a state or the federal government.

concurrent jurisdiction

When two or more courts have the authority to hear the same case.

concurring opinions

Separate opinions written by justices who agree with the majority but for different reasons.

courtroom work group

The professionals working together in the courtroom (judge, prosecutor, defense, etc.).

defense attorney

A lawyer who represents someone accused of a crime.

dissenting opinions

Opinions written by justices who disagree with the majority decision.

docket

The list of cases to be heard in court.

dual court system

The U.S. system with both federal and state courts operating independently.

extradition

The process of returning a person accused or convicted of a crime to the state or country where the crime occurred.

judicial review

The power of courts to declare laws or government actions unconstitutional.

jurisdiction

The authority of a court to hear and decide a case.

magistrate

A judicial officer who handles minor legal matters or assists judges.

Missouri Plan

A method for selecting judges combining appointment and election.

nonpartisan elections

Elections where candidates’ political affiliations are not listed on the ballot.

opinions

Written statements by judges explaining their decisions in a case.

oral arguments

Presentations made by lawyers to a judge or appellate court to support their side.

partisan elections

Elections where candidates run with political party labels.

problem-solving courts

Specialized courts that focus on treating underlying issues like drug addiction or mental illness.

public defender

A government-paid attorney who represents defendants who cannot afford one.

public prosecutor

A government attorney who brings criminal charges against a defendant.

rule of four

At least four Supreme Court justices must agree to hear a case.

trial courts

Courts where cases are initially tried and evidence is presented.

writ of certiorari

A Supreme Court order agreeing to review a lower court’s decision.