South African Legal System Quiz

According to the text, what is the meaning of law?

• A system of moral principles

• A set of guidelines for personal behavior

• A collection of ethical standards

• A body of rules and regulations governing human conduct that is recognized as binding by the state and enforced if necessary

Which court is the highest court of the Republic of South Africa?

• Magistrates' Court

• Constitutional Court

• High Court

• Supreme Court of Appeal

What is the doctrine of 'stare decisis'?

• The process of interpreting and applying laws

• The principle that a court is bound by the earlier decision of a court of equal or higher standing

• The power of courts to make new laws

• The authority of the President to enforce laws

Which type of legislation derives its authority from original legislation?

• Delegated legislation

• Constitutional legislation

• Statutory legislation

• Common law legislation

What is the essential meaning of 'ratio decidendi' in a court decision?

• The reason for the decision

• An incidental statement

• The dissenting opinion

• The final judgment

According to the text, what is the relationship between law and morality?

• Many laws are based on community conceptions of right and wrong

• Laws are completely separate from moral and ethical considerations

• Laws are always in line with moral principles

• Laws are always morally neutral

Which court has the jurisdiction to decide constitutional matters and any other matter of general public importance?

• Supreme Court of Appeal

• High Court

• Constitutional Court

• Magistrates' Court

What is the meaning of 'obiter dictum' in a court decision?

• The final judgment

• The reason for the decision

• An incidental statement

• The dissenting opinion

According to the text, what is customary international law?

• Laws that are recognized as binding by the state

• Laws that are based on customs and traditions

• Laws that are specific to a particular country

• Laws that are universally accepted and recognized

Which court is bound by the earlier decision of the Constitutional Court?

• Supreme Court of Appeal

• High Court

• Constitutional Court

• Magistrates' Court