The Judicial Branch in a Flash: Answer Key
This answer key provides concise explanations for common questions about the U.S. Judicial Branch. It's designed for quick review and reinforcement of key concepts.
I. Structure of the Federal Court System:
Q1: What is the structure of the federal court system?
A1: The federal court system is a three-tiered structure:
- U.S. District Courts (Trial Courts): These are the lowest level courts where cases begin. They have original jurisdiction, meaning they hear cases for the first time.
- U.S. Courts of Appeals (Appellate Courts): These courts review decisions made by the district courts. They have appellate jurisdiction, meaning they only hear appeals. There are 13 Circuit Courts of Appeals.
- U.S. Supreme Court: This is the highest court in the land. It has both original and appellate jurisdiction, but primarily hears appeals from lower federal courts and state supreme courts.
Q2: What is the difference between original and appellate jurisdiction?
A2: Original jurisdiction means a court has the authority to hear a case for the first time. Appellate jurisdiction means a court can only review decisions made by lower courts.
II. Key Roles and Powers:
Q3: What is the primary role of the Judicial Branch?
A3: The primary role is to interpret the laws of the United States and ensure they are applied fairly. This includes judicial review, the power to declare laws unconstitutional.
Q4: What is judicial review?
A4: Judicial review is the power of the Supreme Court (and other federal courts) to declare laws passed by Congress or actions taken by the executive branch unconstitutional and therefore void. This power is not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution but was established by the Supreme Court case Marbury v. Madison (1803).
Q5: How are federal judges appointed?
A5: Federal judges are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. They serve life terms, ensuring their independence from political pressure.
III. Landmark Cases:
Q6: Briefly describe the significance of Marbury v. Madison.
A6: Marbury v. Madison established the principle of judicial review, fundamentally shaping the balance of power among the three branches of government.
Q7: (Optional - Add other landmark cases relevant to your learning objective)
IV. Checks and Balances:
Q8: How does the Judicial Branch interact with the other branches through checks and balances?
A8: The Judicial Branch checks the other branches through judicial review (checking the legislative and executive branches). The Legislative Branch can check the Judicial Branch by impeaching and removing judges, and by altering the Court's jurisdiction. The Executive Branch checks the Judicial Branch through its power to appoint judges.
This flash answer key provides a foundational understanding of the U.S. Judicial Branch. For deeper understanding, further research and study are encouraged.
