Civics Test

Article III, IV, VI + Tenth Amendment

What is the main purpose of the Judicial Branch?

It interprets laws and ensures they are applied fairly according to the Constitution.

What does Article III of the Constitution establish?

It establishes the Judicial Branch and the U.S. Supreme Court.

Who creates lower federal courts?

Congress has the power to create lower federal courts.

What is the term length for federal judges, including Supreme Court Justices?

They serve for life, unless they resign, retire, or are removed through impeachment.

What is the Dual Court System?

The division between state courts and federal courts, with each having their own jurisdiction.

What are federal courts responsible for?

Cases involving federal laws, the Constitution, disputes between states, or cases involving foreign governments.

What are state courts responsible for?

Cases involving state laws, family law, criminal law, and most civil disputes.

What is original jurisdiction?

The authority to hear a case for the first time.

What is appellate jurisdiction?

The authority to review decisions made by lower courts.

What type of jurisdiction does the Supreme Court have?

Both original and appellate jurisdiction, but mostly appellate.

How many justices are on the U.S. Supreme Court?

9 Justices – 1 Chief Justice and 8 Associate Justices.

How are Supreme Court justices selected?

Nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate.

What is judicial review?

The power of the courts to declare laws or executive actions unconstitutional.

What court case established judicial review?

Marbury v. Madison (1803).

Why is Marbury v. Madison important?

It established the principle of judicial review, strengthening the Judicial Branch.

What does Article IV of the Constitution address?

The relationship between states and the federal government.

What is the Full Faith and Credit Clause?

States must recognize public acts, records, and judicial decisions of other states.

What does Article VI of the Constitution establish?

The Constitution is the "supreme Law of the Land" – also known as the Supremacy Clause.

What is the Supremacy Clause?

It states that federal law overrides state law if there is a conflict.

What is the Tenth Amendment?

It says powers not given to the federal government are reserved to the states or the people.

What is the difference between state and local governments?

State governments handle statewide issues like education and transportation; local governments handle city or county matters like zoning, police, and libraries.