Civics Chapter 7 Lesson 4

During oral arguments, much time is used for

• answering justices’ questions.

• reciting briefs.

• drafting opinions.

• announcing the majority decision.

Most cases come to the Supreme Court

• before any other court hears them.

• on appeal from lower courts.

• on appeal from private citizens.

• on the recommendation of Congress.

Which of the following is a case that the Supreme Court would be most likely to accept?

• a case on which district courts have agreed

• a case that affects an earlier decision

• a case that affects the entire country

• a case that involves a political dispute

How many justices must be present to decide a case?

• four

• five

• six

• eight

When ruling on an issue that has been decided by a court in the past, the Supreme Court

• may follow precedent or overrule precedent.

• may not make decisions based on personal views.

• must follow precedent.

• must consider changing times and social concerns.

A guiding principle that reminds justices to follow precedent is known as stare decisis.

• true

• false

A document that explains one side’s position on a case presented before the Supreme Court is called a(n) brief.

• true

• false

The document that states the facts of a Supreme Court case and gives the ruling is the majority opinion

• true

• false

When a justice agrees with the Supreme Court ruling on a case but for different reasons, he or she may write a separate statement called a(n)

• concurring opinion

• dissenting opinion

Justices who oppose the ruling on a Supreme Court case write a(n) dissenting opinion.

• true

• false