U.S. Law and Government Flashcard

Front

Which source of law holds supreme authority in the U.S.?

Back

Constitutional law

Answer explanation

Constitutional law holds supreme authority in the U.S. It establishes the framework of government and the fundamental rights of citizens, making it the highest source of law, above statutory, case, and administrative law.

Front

Which branch of government enacts statutory law?

Back

Legislative

Answer explanation

The Legislative branch is responsible for enacting statutory law, which involves creating and passing laws. The Executive branch enforces laws, while the Judicial branch interprets them, and Administrative agencies implement regulations.

Front

Which type of law comes from judicial interpretations?

Back

Case law

Answer explanation

Case law is derived from judicial interpretations of statutes and legal precedents, making it the correct answer. Statutory law is created by legislatures, while administrative and constitutional law arise from different sources.

Front

Which type of law comes from government agencies?

Back

Administrative law

Answer explanation

Administrative law is the type of law that comes from government agencies, regulating their operations and enforcing regulations. It differs from case law, statutory law, and constitutional law, which originate from different sources.

Front

Which branch enforces the laws?

Back

Executive

Answer explanation

The Executive branch is responsible for enforcing laws, implementing policies, and administering government functions, making it the correct choice for the question about which branch enforces the laws.

Front

Which branch interprets the laws?

Back

Judicial

Answer explanation

The Judicial branch interprets the laws, ensuring they are applied fairly and consistently. It reviews cases and determines the legality of laws, making it the correct choice for interpreting laws.

Front

Checks and balances exist to prevent what?

Back

One branch from dominating

Answer explanation

Checks and balances are designed to prevent one branch of government from becoming too powerful, ensuring that power is distributed and that no single branch can dominate the others.

Front

Which is the lowest level of federal courts?

Back

District courts

Answer explanation

The lowest level of federal courts is the District courts, which handle most federal cases. The Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court are higher levels in the federal judiciary system.

Front

In Wisconsin, which court handles ordinance violations?

Back

Municipal courts

Answer explanation

In Wisconsin, ordinance violations are specifically handled by municipal courts, which have jurisdiction over local laws and ordinances. Circuit courts deal with more serious cases, while the Court of Appeals and Supreme Court handle appeals.

Front

What is the burden of proof in criminal cases?

Back

Beyond a reasonable doubt

Answer explanation

In criminal cases, the burden of proof lies with the prosecution, which must establish the defendant's guilt "beyond a reasonable doubt." This is the highest standard of proof, ensuring that there is no reasonable uncertainty about the defendant's guilt.