Review of Key Legal Concepts

A set of flashcards covering essential legal vocabulary and concepts for exam preparation.

Law Clerk

An assistant to federal judges who researches legal issues and helps prepare opinions.

Supremacy Clause

Part of Article VI of the Constitution stating that federal law takes precedence over state laws.

Precedents

Prior court cases that influence the reasoning in later cases.

Warrantless Search

The police cannot search the digital contents of a cell phone without a warrant.

Courts of Appeals

Courts that hear appeals from lower courts.

Plea Bargain

An agreement in which a defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge.

Criminal Law

The body of law dealing with crime and prosecution.

Oral Argument

The presentation of a case in front of the Supreme Court.

Judicial Review

The power of courts to review the actions of the executive branch.

Dissenting Opinions

Opinions written by judges who disagree with the majority ruling.

Standing Requirement

The requirement for a party to demonstrate the right to challenge another party in court.

Writ of Certiorari

A request for the Supreme Court to review a case.

Judicial Restraint

A legal philosophy advocating for limited interpretation of the law.

Judicial Activism

Judicial philosophy advocating for broader interpretations and changes to the law.

Civil Law Case

A case involving private disputes rather than criminal matters.

Tort

A civil wrong causing injury or loss for which a claim can be made.

Original Jurisdiction

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

Jurisdiction

The authority given to a court to hear a case.

Appeal Error

A legal mistake made by a trial court that can be challenged in a higher court.

Media Coverage

The impact of news media on public perception and legal issues.

Confirmation Vote

The Senate majority vote required to approve a Supreme Court nominee.