12 Questions
What is the main responsibility of the judicial branch?
Interpreting laws
How are federal judges appointed in the United States?
By the President and Senate
What is the purpose of appointing federal judges for life?
To allow them to interpret laws freely
How many U.S. District Courts are there in the United States?
94
Why does the Supreme Court have the final say in legal matters?
As stated in the Constitution
Who nominates the members of the Supreme Court?
The President
What is the main role of the Supreme Court in reviewing cases?
Review a select few cases deemed important enough
What right does the Bill of Rights guarantee to individuals accused of a crime?
Right to a speedy trial
What happens if the jury reaches a verdict of 'not-guilty' in a trial?
Charges are dropped and the accused is set free
In the judicial process, when is the accused given a lawyer?
At the time of arrest
What can happen if one side in a trial feels it wasn't handled correctly or fairly?
An appeal can be made to a higher court
How many requests are sent to the Supreme Court each year for consideration?
7,500 requests
Study Notes
The Judicial Branch
- The Judicial Branch is composed of judges and courts, with federal judges appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate, rather than being elected by the people.
- The hierarchy of federal courts consists of 94 U.S. District Courts, 13 Courts of Appeals, and the Supreme Court at the top.
The Supreme Court
- The Supreme Court has the final say in interpreting laws and has nine members, nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate, who serve for life.
- The number of Supreme Court Justices is not specified in the Constitution, but has been nine since 1869.
- The Supreme Court reviews cases appealed from lower courts, but only considers around 150 of the 7,500 requests it receives each year.
The Judicial Process
- The Constitution guarantees the right to a fair trial before a competent judge and a jury of peers.
- The Bill of Rights adds additional rights, including a speedy trial, legal representation, protection from double jeopardy, and protection from cruel punishments.
- The judicial process involves a judge charging the accused, allowing them to enter a plea, and providing a lawyer and time to review evidence.
- The case is then tried before a judge and jury, with the possibility of appeal to a higher court if deemed necessary.
Learn about the structure of the Judicial Branch in the United States, including the appointment process for federal judges and the hierarchy of federal courts. Explore the role and significance of the Supreme Court within the Judicial Branch.
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