AP GOV

A. Exclusionary Rule
Evidence found illegally can’t be used in court.

B. Civil Liberties
Freedoms that protect people from government (speech, religion, etc.).

C. Civil Rights
Protections from unfair treatment based on things like race or gender.

D. 5th Amendment
Right to remain silent, no double jeopardy, due process, property protection.

E. 6th Amendment
Right to a lawyer, speedy and public trial, and to confront witnesses.

F. 10th Amendment
Powers not given to the federal government go to the states or people.

G. Tinker v. Des Moines (1969)
Students can wear armbands—free speech in schools if not disruptive.

H. Schenck v. U.S. (1919)
Speech can be limited if it causes “clear and present danger.”

I. Symbolic Speech
Actions that express ideas (like flag burning or armbands).

J. Defamation
False statements that harm someone’s reputation.

K. Time, Place, and Manner Restrictions
Government can limit when, where, and how speech happens—but not what’s said.

L. Wisconsin v. Yoder (1972)
Amish don’t have to attend school past 8th grade—free exercise of religion.

M. Engel v. Vitale (1962)
School prayer is unconstitutional—violates separation of church and state.

N. Due Process
Government must follow fair rules before taking away life, liberty, or property.

O. McDonald v. Chicago (2010)
2nd Amendment (gun rights) applies to states too.

P. Prior Restraint
Government can’t stop something from being published beforehand.

Q. Selective Incorporation
The Bill of Rights applies to states case by case through the 14th Amendment.

R. Gideon v. Wainwright (1963)
Poor defendants must be given a lawyer.

S. Free Exercise Clause
Protects people’s right to practice their religion freely.

T. New York Times v. U.S. (1971)
Government can’t block press unless it’s a true national security risk.

U. Right to Speedy & Public Trial
People accused of crimes must get a fair and quick trial.

V. Right to Privacy
People have personal privacy protected from government interference.

W. Rule of Law
Everyone—including the government—must follow the law.