Federal Courts
What is the lowest level of federal courts where trials usually begin?
U.S. District Courts
What type of court usually hears most criminal and civil cases first in a state?
Trial court (often called Circuit/Superior/Common Pleas depending on state)
“Jurisdiction” means a court’s ____ to hear a case.
Power/authority
Which court usually has a jury: trial court or appellate court?
Trial court
Which branch makes laws?
Legislative
What is the name of the highest court in the United States?
The U.S. Supreme Court
True/False: State courts can hear cases involving state laws.
True
What is it called when a court has authority over the people involved?
Personal jurisdiction
What does an appellate court mainly review?
Whether legal errors were made in the trial court
Which branch enforces laws?
Executive
What federal court hears appeals from U.S. District Courts?
What federal court hears appeals from U.S. District Courts?
What is the state court called that reviews trial court decisions?
Appellate court (Court of Appeals)
What is it called when a court has authority over the type of case or issue?
Subject-matter jurisdiction
True/False: Appellate courts usually hear new witnesses and new evidence.
False
Which branch interprets laws?
Judicial
True/False: All federal cases automatically go to the Supreme Court.
False (most end at the Courts of Appeals)
What is the highest court in most states typically called?
State Supreme Court (some states call it Court of Appeals)
If a crime happens in South Carolina, what state usually has jurisdiction to prosecute?
South Carolina (the state where it occurred)
What is a written decision by an appellate court called?
An opinion (or ruling)
What is “judicial review”?
The power of courts to declare laws/actions unconstitutional
Name ONE type of case that commonly belongs in federal court.
Cases involving federal law, the U.S. Constitution, disputes between states, or diversity jurisdiction (citizens of different states with enough money at issue)
Give ONE example of a case that is usually handled in state court.
Divorce/custody, most crimes (robbery/assault), traffic offenses, state contract disputes, property disputes
A case involves a federal law and a state law issue. Name ONE reason it might end up in federal court.
Federal question jurisdiction (federal law/Constitution is involved)
What are the three possible outcomes of an appeal? (Name one or more.)
Affirm (uphold), reverse, or remand (send back)
Give ONE example of checks and balances involving the courts.
Courts can strike down unconstitutional laws; executive appoints judges but legislature confirms (federal); courts can limit executive actions