Constitutional Law Lecture Review

These flashcards cover key concepts in constitutional law focusing on discrimination, fundamental rights, congressional power, and presidential authority as outlined in the lecture notes.

What does the 14th Amendment protect against?

The 14th Amendment protects against discrimination and ensures equal protection under the law.

What is meant by 'Strict Scrutiny' in constitutional law?

Strict Scrutiny is a standard of review applied to laws that infringe on suspect classes or fundamental rights, requiring a compelling government interest and narrowly tailored means.

In which case was the 'public function exception' established?

The public function exception was established in Marsh v. Alabama.

What is required to prove a claim of facial discrimination?

If the law is facially discriminatory, the case moves directly to scrutiny analysis, such as in the VMI case.

What factors are considered in determining 'invidious intent'?

Invidious intent is assessed using Arlington Heights factors: (a) historical background, (b) the sequence of events, (c) abnormal procedures, and (d) legislative or administrative history.

What level of scrutiny applies to laws affecting gender classifications?

Intermediate scrutiny applies to gender classifications.

Which Supreme Court case established the idea of fundamental rights relating to privacy?

Griswold v. Connecticut established the concept of fundamental rights related to privacy, particularly in contraceptive decisions.

What standard did the Court apply in assessing voting rights in Reynolds v. Sims?

Reynolds v. Sims applied the Equal Protection Clause to require equitable voting districts.

What does the Necessary and Proper Clause empower Congress to do?

The Necessary and Proper Clause enables Congress to carry out its powers in a way that is appropriate and adapted to its purpose.

What was the key ruling in Youngstown Sheet and Tube Co. v. Sawyer regarding presidential power?

Youngstown established a framework categorizing presidential power depending on Congressional authority, with actions taken against Congressional will being at 'lowest ebb' of power.

In constitutional law, what principle allows Congress to condition spending on states?

Congress can condition spending on states under the principle that the condition must relate to the general welfare, be unambiguous, and not contravene other constitutional provisions.

What constitutes a fundamental right according to McDonald v. City of Chicago?

A fundamental right is defined as one that is 'deeply rooted in this Nation’s history and tradition'.

What are the five reasons that a court might consider overturning precedent as established in Dobbs?

1) Nature of the error, 2) Quality of reasoning, 3) Workability of rule, 4) Disruptive effect, 5) Absence of concrete reliance.

How is state sovereign immunity limited according to the 14th Amendment?

State sovereign immunity can only be abrogated in cases of enforcement under the 14th Amendment, as established in Seminole Tribe of Florida v. Florida.

What is the significance of the case Cleburne v. Cleburne Living Center regarding disability?

Cleburne addressed the rational basis standard for discrimination against the mentally disabled and established criteria for evaluating laws under equal protection.