Criminal Law
What is the primary purpose of criminal law?
The primary purpose of criminal law is to maintain public order and protect individuals by prohibiting certain behaviors deemed harmful to society.
What is civil law primarily concerned with?
Civil law is primarily concerned with resolving disputes between individuals or organizations, often involving compensation or specific performance.
What is the highest court in the United States?
The highest court in the United States is the Supreme Court of the United States.
What is the supreme law of the land?
The supreme law of the land is the Constitution of the United States.
Name the three branches of the U.S. government.
The three branches of the U.S. government are the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
Define the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor.
A felony is a serious crime, typically punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or by death, while a misdemeanor is a less serious crime, punishable by less than a year in jail or fines.
Describe the difference between compensatory and punitive damages.
Compensatory damages are awarded to compensate the injured party for losses, while punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.
How many justices are on the Supreme Court?
There are nine justices on the Supreme Court.
What are the first ten amendments to the Constitution called?
The first ten amendments to the Constitution are called the Bill of Rights.
What is the primary function of the legislative branch?
The primary function of the legislative branch is to make laws.
What is the term for a legal document that formally accuses someone of a crime?
The legal document that formally accuses someone of a crime is called an "indictment."
What is a tort, and how does it differ from a crime?
A tort is a civil wrong that causes harm or loss to another, differing from a crime, which is an offense against the state or public.
What is the process for a case to reach the Supreme Court?
A case can reach the Supreme Court through a writ of certiorari, which is granted when the Court agrees to hear an appeal from a lower court.
Describe the significance of the Supremacy Clause.
The Supremacy Clause establishes that the Constitution and federal laws take precedence over state laws.
Describe the role of the executive branch in law enforcement.
he executive branch enforces laws and is responsible for law enforcement through agencies like the FBI and police departments.
Explain the concept of "double jeopardy.
Double jeopardy" is the legal principle that prohibits an individual from being tried twice for the same offense.
Explain the process of mediation in civil disputes.
Mediation is a process where a neutral third party helps the disputing parties reach a voluntary settlement.
Describe the significance of the Marbury v. Madison case.
The Marbury v. Madison case established the principle of judicial review, allowing the Supreme Court to declare laws unconstitutional.
How does the Constitution establish checks and balances among branches of government?
The Constitution establishes checks and balances by giving each branch of government specific powers and the ability to limit the powers of the other branches.
How does the judicial branch interpret laws?
The judicial branch interprets laws and resolves legal disputes through the court system.
Discuss the implications of the "exclusionary rule" in a criminal trial.
The "exclusionary rule" prevents the use of evidence obtained in violation of a defendant's constitutional rights, particularly during illegal searches and seizures.
What role do class action lawsuits play in civil law?
Class action lawsuits allow a group of people with similar grievances to sue collectively, making it easier to address widespread issues.
What is judicial review, and why is it important?
Judicial review is the power of courts to assess whether a law is in compliance with the Constitution, and it is crucial for maintaining the rule of law.
Discuss the amendment process outlined in the Constitution.
The amendment process outlined in the Constitution requires proposals to be approved by a two-thirds majority in both houses of Congress and ratified by three-fourths of the states.
Explain the concept of separation of powers.
The concept of separation of powers divides government responsibilities among the three branches to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.