The Judicial Branch Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is a main difference between state and federal courts?

State courts try cases between citizens of a state, while federal courts try disputes between states. (correct)

State courts try disputes between states, while federal courts try cases between citizens of a state.

State courts consider the facts and law in making a decision, while federal courts consider the law, facts, and precedents.

State courts consider the facts and precedents in a decision, while federal courts consider the law, facts, and precedents.

Which type of jurisdiction do federal trial courts have?

Original (correct)

Limited

General

Appellate

What can a losing party in a federal trial court do?

Ask for a retrial in the same court

Appeal to a higher federal court (correct)

Appeal to the US Supreme Court

Ask for a different judge in the same court

What can a person do if they are not satisfied with an appellate court's decision?

Can take the case to a higher court Signup and view all the answers

How are state and federal appellate courts similar?

Both hear cases from lower courts Signup and view all the answers

If a person in Idaho buys a faulty camera from a company in Texas, which court would most likely handle the case first?

A federal trial court Signup and view all the answers

Courts of general jurisdiction typically have?

A judge and jury Signup and view all the answers

US District Courts hear federal cases involving?

Civil and criminal issues Signup and view all the answers

Which steps make up the judicial process in the federal court system?

Assigning jurisdiction, making a decision, appealing the case Signup and view all the answers

Jurisdiction gives federal courts the authority to?

Hear certain kinds of cases Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Key Differences Between State and Federal Courts

State courts resolve disputes between citizens of a state, while federal courts handle cases involving disputes between states.
Federal courts prioritize the law, facts, and precedents, whereas state courts focus on facts and precedents in decision-making.

Jurisdiction in Federal Courts

Federal trial courts possess original jurisdiction, allowing them to hear cases first.
A losing party in federal trial court can appeal to a higher federal court for reconsideration.

Appellate Decisions and Options

Individuals dissatisfied with an appellate court's decision can appeal to a higher court.
Cases cannot be taken to a different trial court or to a federal court if already decided by an appellate court.

Similarities in Appellate Courts

Both state and federal appellate courts hear cases originating from lower courts, maintaining consistency in the judicial process.

Handling Cross-State Cases

Cases like a faulty camera purchased in Idaho from a Texas company are typically initiated in a federal trial court.

General Jurisdiction Courts

Courts of general jurisdiction are characterized by having both a judge and a jury present during proceedings.

Federal District Court Responsibilities

U.S. District Courts manage federal cases that encompass both civil and criminal issues, serving as primary trial courts.

Judicial Process Steps

Judicial processes in the federal court system include: assigning jurisdiction, making decisions, and allowing for appeals following the initial ruling.

Understanding Jurisdiction

Jurisdiction is essential in federal courts, granting them the authority to hear specific kinds of cases based on established legal guidelines.

Description

Explore the complexities of the judicial branch with these flashcards. Learn key differences between state and federal courts and how they function in the legal system. Ideal for students wanting to understand the judiciary's role in governance.