Semester 1 Benchmark Review

Front

Which type of VA state court is being described? Original jurisdiction over felony cases and appellate jurisdiction, not a court at the federal level, only state court that may have a jury.

Back

VA Circuit Court

Answer explanation

The VA Circuit Court has original jurisdiction over felony cases and can conduct jury trials, fitting the description provided. Other courts listed do not have both original jurisdiction over felonies and jury capabilities.

Front

Highest court in Virginia with justices, appellate (court of final appeal in VA) and limited original jurisdiction.

Back

Virginia Supreme Court

Answer explanation

The Virginia Supreme Court is the highest court in Virginia, serving as the court of final appeal with justices and limited original jurisdiction, unlike the other options which have different roles.

Front

What court case established the principle of judicial review at the national level of government?

Back

Marbury v. Madison

Answer explanation

The case Marbury v. Madison (1803) established the principle of judicial review, allowing the Supreme Court to invalidate laws that conflict with the Constitution, thus affirming its role in the national government.

Front

Your friend buys a brand new iPhone. You borrow the phone over the weekend and end up cracking the screen. Your friend is now suing you for the damages. Criminal or civil case?

Back

Civil

Answer explanation

This is a civil case because it involves a dispute over damages to personal property (the iPhone). Criminal cases involve actions that are offenses against the state, while civil cases address private disputes between individuals.

Front

Highest court in Virginia with justices and no jury.

Back

Virginia Supreme Court

Answer explanation

The Virginia Supreme Court is the highest court in Virginia, consisting of justices and no jury. It reviews decisions from lower courts, unlike the other options listed, which serve different functions in the judicial system.

Front

What court hears the case first for a student charged with trespassing after dressing as Bigfoot? Options: Circuit Court, General District Court, Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court

Back

Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court

Answer explanation

The case involves a student, likely a minor, charged with trespassing. Such cases are typically heard in Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court, which handles offenses involving juveniles.

Front

What legal process does the State Supreme Court exercise in this headline?

Back

judicial review

Answer explanation

The State Supreme Court exercises judicial review to evaluate the constitutionality of laws and government actions, making it the correct legal process in this context.

Front

A person accused of a crime may be arrested if the police have ____________ ____________.

Back

probable cause

Answer explanation

A person accused of a crime may be arrested if the police have "probable cause," which means they have reasonable grounds to believe that a crime has been committed. This is a legal standard necessary for making an arrest.

Front

The national government is prohibited from acting in an unfair manner by what amendment?

Back

5th

Answer explanation

The 5th Amendment prohibits the national government from acting unfairly, ensuring due process and protecting against self-incrimination and double jeopardy. This amendment is key in safeguarding individual rights.

Front

Constitutional protections against unfair governmental actions and laws are known as -

Back

Due Process

Answer explanation

Constitutional protections against unfair governmental actions and laws are referred to as Due Process. This principle ensures that individuals receive fair treatment through the judicial system.