Amsco Judicial Branch Vocabulary

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The decisions of higher courts that set the legal standards for similar cases in lower courts within the same jurisdiction.

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Binding precedent

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Courts within the lowest tier of the three-tiered federal court system; courts where litigation begins.

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U.S. District Courts

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The 17th and current Chief Justice of the United States

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John Roberts

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A Latin phrase meaning "let the decision stand." Most cases reaching appellate courts are settled on this principle.

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Stare decisis precedent

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Consists of nine justices, each appointed by the President and confirmed by Congress.

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U.S. Supreme Court

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The courts where parties who are dissatisfied with the judgment of a U.S. District court may take their case

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U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeals

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A decision of another court which is influential but not binding.

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Persuasive precedent

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An issuing from a superior court calling up the record of a proceeding in an inferior court for review

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Certiorari

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Deals with the proposed structure of federal courts, their powers and jurisdiction, the method of appointing judges, and related matters.

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Federalist 78

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The head of the department of justice

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Attorney General