Structure Of Power
Which branch that determines constitutionality for laws & acts?
The Judicial Branch
What is the system in government to ensure no branch becomes to powerful?
Checks and Balances
How does the Appointment step work?
If confirmed, the President signs the nominee's official commission.
The nominee must then take the Oath of Office to officially assume the judicial position.
What is Specialized jurisdiction?
Federal courts that have jurisdiction over specific areas like bankruptcy, patents, copyrights, and maritime law.
How long are Federal Judges & Supreme Justices are appointed for?
For life
What is the highest court of law in the Judicial Branch?
The Supreme Court
Which branch of government limits the size of the Supreme Court?
Legislative Branch
How does the Nomination step work?
The President nominates candidates for a vacant federal judgeship.
Nominations are often suggested by senators of the President's party or the White House staff and legal counsel.
What type of jurisdiction involves disputes where the United States is a party?
Cases involving the U.S. government
The authority to hear a case for the first time are called what?
Original Jurisdiction
Who is the person who appoints Supreme Justices & Federal Judges?
The President
Which branch of government does the Judicial Branch rely on to enforce its rulings?
Executive Branch
How does the Committee Hearing step work?
The committee holds a public hearing where Senators question the nominee on their qualifications, philosophy, and past decisions.
Witnesses, both for and against the nominee, may present their views
What type of jurisdiction involves disputes between the U.S. government and foreign governments or their representatives?
Cases involving foreign governments
The authority to review decisions made by a lower court are called what?
Appellate Jurisdiction
What is the judicial branch's power structure?
Hierarchical
What orders made by the president can be challenged in court and declared unconstitutional?
Executive Orders
How does the Judiciary Committee and Full Senate Debate Vote steps work?
The committee votes on the nomination and sends a recommendation (or no recommendation) to the full Senate
The full Senate considers the nomination, which may involve debate.
A vote is held, and a simple majority is required to confirm the nominee. If the vote is a tie, the Vice President can cast the deciding vote.
What is Federal Question jurisdiction?
These are cases that involve the U.S. Constitution, federal laws, or treaties.
When does a committee send a blue slip to the senators from the nominee's home state to get their opinion on the candidate?
During the "Blue Slip" Process
What is the trial courts where most federal cases begin?
U.S. District Courts
Courts that will not hear cases that are better left to the political branches to resolve are called what?
Political Question Doctrine
Background check and Committee review steps work?
The FBI conducts an investigation into the nominee's background, including criminal history, tax compliance, and professional reputation.
The nominee completes a lengthy questionnaire about their legal history, professional information, and financial details. The Senate Judiciary Committee reviews the information and prepares for a confirmation hearing.
What does diversity of citizenship jurisdiction do in courts?
It allows federal courts to hear cases based on state law if the parties are from different states and the amount in controversy exceeds $75,000.
What is the basketball court on the top floor of the Supreme Court called?
The "highest court in the land"