AP Government and Politics Unit 3 Exam Vocabulary

Federalist no. 78

Federalist No. 78 by Alexander Hamilton argues that the federal courts should be independent and have the power of judicial review. This power allows the courts to strike down laws and actions that violate the Constitution.

Judicial Review

The authority of the Supreme Court to strike down a law or executive action if it conflicts with the Constitution.

Civil Law

Cases involving private rights and relationships between individuals and groups.

Criminal Law

A category of law covering actions that harm the community.

What is the difference between the Federal District Courts and the Federal Court of Appeals?

Federal district courts are where trials are held and lawsuits begin. The Federal Appeals Court’s job is to review decisions made in lower district courts to determine if something was done incorrectly.

Stare Decisis

• No new precedent

Concurring Opinion

An opinion that agrees with the majority decision, offering different or additional reasoning, no precedent.

Due Process Clause

The clause in the 14th Amendment that restricts state governments from denying citizens their life, liberty, or property without legal safeguards.

Prior Restraint

The suppression of material prior to publication on the grounds that it might endanger national security.

Bill of Attainder

Trial

Fifth Amendment

• Double Jeopardy

• Miranda Rights

• Grand Jury

Procedural Due Process

A judicial standard requiring that fairness be applied to all individuals equally.

Fourth Amendment

• Warrant

• Probable Cause

• Exclusionary Rule

Sixth & Seventh Amendments

• The right to a fair and speedy trial.

• The right to a trial by jury.

Eighth Amendment

• Protects from cruel and unusual punishment.

• Prohibits excessive bail.

De Jure and De Facto Segregation

De jure segregation is segregation that's legally mandated (race), while de facto segregation is segregation that happens in practice but isn't legally required. 

Civil Rights Act of 1964

• Outlawed racial segregation in schools and public places.

Voting Rights Act of 1965

Legislation outlawing literacy tests and authorizing the Justice Department to send federal officers to register voters in uncooperative cities, counties, and states.