12th Grade Judiciary Vocabulary Overview

What is the definition of an amicus curiae?

• An action prohibited by law

• A party involved in a case

• A written legal argument presented to a court

• A 'friend of the court'

Answer explanation

An amicus curiae is a 'friend of the court' who presents a written legal argument to assist the court in making a decision. It is not a party involved in the case or an action prohibited by law.

Which court has the power to review cases already decided by a lower court?

• Appellate court

• District court

• Supreme Court

• Family court

Answer explanation

The correct court with the power to review cases already decided by a lower court is the Appellate court.

What does appellate jurisdiction refer to?

• Lower court decisions

• Trial court procedures

• The power to hear cases on appeal

• State court rulings

Answer explanation

Appellate jurisdiction refers to the power to hear cases on appeal, allowing higher courts to review decisions made by lower courts.

What is a brief in a legal context?

• A lengthy oral argument

• A written legal argument

• An official court order

• A court-appointed attorney

Answer explanation

In a legal context, a brief refers to a written legal argument presented to the court.

Who is the highest-ranking justice on the Supreme Court?

• Chief justice

• Senior justice

• Head justice

• Lead justice

Answer explanation

The correct choice is Chief justice because they hold the highest-ranking position on the Supreme Court.

What are circuit courts also known as?

• Higher courts

• Courts of appeals

• Supreme courts

• Federal courts

Answer explanation

Circuit courts are also known as courts of appeals, which hear appeals from lower courts and do not refer to higher or supreme courts.

Which type of law defines private rights and remedies?

• Criminal law

• Civil law

• Public law

• Constitutional law

Answer explanation

Civil law defines private rights and remedies, focusing on disputes between individuals or organizations rather than criminal offenses.

What is common law based on?

• Judicial interpretations

• Legislative statutes

• Public referendums

• Executive orders

Answer explanation

Common law is based on judicial interpretations, where judges make decisions based on precedent and case law rather than legislative statutes, public referendums, or executive orders.

What kind of opinion agrees with the Court's majority opinion but for different reasons?

• Concurring opinion

• Dissenting opinion

• Majority opinion

• Unanimous opinion

Answer explanation

A concurring opinion agrees with the Court's majority opinion but for different reasons, making it the correct choice in this scenario.

Which courts review decisions of lower district courts?

• District courts

• Supreme courts

• Appellate courts

• Federal courts

Answer explanation

Appellate courts review decisions of lower district courts by examining the legal issues and determining if the lower court made any errors in applying the law.