How Cases Reach the U.S. Supreme Court

The video explains the process of how cases are heard by the Supreme Court, contrasting it with the immediate decisions made by an umpire. It details the journey of a case through appeals, the filing of a writ of certiorari, and the selection process by the justices, known as the Rule of Four. The video also covers instances where cases originate directly at the Supreme Court, such as those involving foreign diplomats or state disputes. Finally, it includes review questions to reinforce the learning material.

What is the term used for the document filed by the petitioner to request the Supreme Court to hear a case?

• The cert

• The writ

• The doc

• None of the above

What is the term for the party that wants the lower court's decision to remain unchanged?

• Respondent

• Petitioner

• Appellant

• Defendant

Approximately how many certs are submitted to the Supreme Court annually?

• 7000

• 2000

• 1000

• 500

What is the minimum number of justices required to agree for a case to be heard by the Supreme Court?

• Two

• Three

• Five

• Four

Which of the following cases would start directly at the Supreme Court?

• A case involving a dispute between a state and the federal government

• A case involving a dispute between states

• A case involving a foreign diplomat

• All of the above