Judicial Branch

Article III of the Constitution established the US Supreme Court. Why does this article refer to this court as "Supreme"?

• It hears more cases than any other court.
• It has authority over all other courts in the US.
• Its officers are appointed by the President of the US.
• It has authority over both the executive and legislative branches

Why do federal judges enjoy lifetime tenure?

• to ensure the system of checks and balances
• to strengthen their jurisdiction over state courts
• to limit the power of the legislative branch and executive branches
• to maintain their independence from political and popular pressures

An oil barge belonging to the State of Alabama has a massive oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico. The leaked oil damages the beautiful beaches of Destin, Panama City, and Ft. Walton. The oil also endangers the shrimp and crab industry of FL. The state of FL sues AL. Which court has jurisdiction over the case?

• US Supreme Court
• Florida Supreme Court
• US Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit
• US District Court for the Northern District of FL.  

How does an appellate court differ from a trial court?

• An appellate court usually has a jury.
• An Appellate court decides issues of fact.
• An appellate court examines more witnesses.
• An appellate court reviews another court's decision.

The Rio Grande forms the international border between Texas and Mexico. Over the years, the Rio Grande has changed its course several times. This has led to a number of disputes between Texas, New Mexico, and Mexico. The Country Club dispute between Texas and New Mexico was decided by the US Supreme Court in 1927. Why did the Supreme Court exercise original jurisdiction over this case?

• The case involves Federal law.
• The case was between several states as parties
• The case was between citizens of different states
• The case involved foreign ambassadors, public ministers and consuls.

Which are the only federal courts to have juries?

• US District Courts
• US Supreme Court
• US Circuit Court of Appeals
• US District Court of Appeals 

What step can a party immediately take once it loses its case in US District Court?

• It can appeal to the US Supreme Court
• It can appeal to the Florida Supreme Court
• It can appeal to the US Circuit Court of Appeals
• It can appeal to the Florida District Court of Appeals