Supreme Court of the United States Procedures: Crash Course Government and Politics

The video provides an overview of how the U.S. Supreme Court operates, detailing the process from case selection to decision-making. It explains the requirements for a case to be heard, the role of certiorari, and the selection process through the cert pool and discussion list. The video also covers the submission of briefs, including amicus curiae, and the conduct of oral arguments. It describes the types of opinions issued by the court and their implications for legal precedents. The video concludes with key points to remember about the procedural aspects of the Supreme Court.

What is the first requirement for a case to be considered by the Supreme Court?

• A recommendation from Congress

• Approval from the President

• A case or controversy

• A unanimous decision from a lower court

What is the role of the Solicitor General in the Supreme Court case selection process?

• To write the majority opinion

• To decide the final outcome of cases

• To screen petitions for federal law questions

• To represent the President in court

How many justices must agree to hear a case for it to be granted certiorari?

• Three

• Four

• Five

• Six

What is an amicus curiae brief?

• A brief submitted by the petitioner

• A brief submitted by the respondent

• A brief submitted by a non-party with an interest in the case

• A brief submitted by the Chief Justice

What is the purpose of oral arguments in the Supreme Court?

• To allow justices to present their opinions

• To give each side a chance to present their case and answer questions

• To finalize the court's decision

• To introduce new evidence

What is a concurring opinion?

• An opinion that disagrees with the majority

• An opinion that agrees with the majority but for different reasons

• An opinion that sets a new precedent

• An opinion that is binding on lower courts

What is the significance of a dissenting opinion?

• It sets a binding precedent for lower courts

• It is a unanimous agreement among justices

• It is always written by the Chief Justice

• It has no legal force but can influence future cases