Crimes Against the Government
Betraying one’s country, the only crime defined in the Constitution.
What is treason?
Spoken false statements meant to damage someone’s reputation.
What is slander?
This clause prevents the government from establishing a national religion.
What is the Establishment Clause?
The amendment protecting freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly.
What is the 1st Amendment?
These protect individuals from government interference in freedoms like speech and privacy.
What are civil liberties?
Speech that encourages rebellion against lawful authority.
What is sedition?
Written false statements meant to harm someone’s reputation.
What is libel?
This clause protects people’s right to practice their religion freely.
What is the Free Exercise Clause?
The amendment protecting against unreasonable searches and seizures.
What is the 4th Amendment?
These ensure equal treatment under the law and protection against discrimination.
What are civil rights?
Speech that creates a serious danger and is not protected by the First Amendment.
What is unprotected speech?
Nonverbal actions meant to convey a message—such as wearing armbands or burning a flag.
What is symbolic speech?
A government action must have a secular purpose and avoid excessive entanglement under this test.
What is the Lemon Test?
The amendment guaranteeing the right to a speedy and public trial.
What is the 6th Amendment?
The requirement that government must act fairly and follow established procedures.
What is due process?
Speech can be limited if it produces this type of danger.
What is a “clear and present danger”?
Government actions that stop information before it is published.
What is prior restraint?
A public school leading prayer violates this clause.
What is the Establishment Clause?
This amendment says rights not listed in the Constitution are still kept by the people.
What is the 9th Amendment?
The doctrine that applies the Bill of Rights to the states through the 14th Amendment.
What is selective incorporation?
Acts that attempt to overthrow or weaken U.S. authority fall under this category.
What are treason or sedition?
The right to join groups and organizations without government interference.
What is freedom of association?
Laws restricting religious practices require a “compelling government interest,” according to this type of case.
What are Free Exercise cases?
This amendment reserves powers not given to the federal government to the states.
What is the 10th Amendment?
This amendment provides equal protection and is often used in civil rights cases.
What is the 14th Amendment?