Judicial Systems - AP Comparative Government and Politics

What does 'subpoena' mean in legal terms?

A writ ordering a person to attend court. Legal command requiring appearance or document production.
Identify the legal system based on codified laws.

Civil law system. Written statutes form the primary source of law.
What is the primary role of the International Court of Justice?

To settle disputes between states under international law. UN's principal judicial organ for international disputes.
Which term refers to the official power to make legal decisions?

Jurisdiction. Legal authority to hear and decide specific cases.
What is the primary function of a judicial system?

To interpret and apply laws. Courts resolve disputes and ensure legal compliance.
Which body has the power to impeach judges in the U.S.?

The House of Representatives. Lower chamber initiates formal removal proceedings against officials.
Which legal system relies heavily on written statutes?

Civil law system. Codified laws provide comprehensive legal framework.
What does the doctrine of separation of powers entail?

Division of government responsibilities into distinct branches. Prevents concentration of power in any single branch.
What is the purpose of habeas corpus?

To challenge unlawful detention. Fundamental protection against arbitrary government detention.
Identify the highest court in the United States.

The Supreme Court. Final appellate court with ultimate constitutional authority.
What is the purpose of judicial activism?

To interpret the constitution to reflect current conditions. Courts actively shape policy through constitutional interpretation.
What is the duty of a prosecuting attorney?

To represent the government in criminal cases. Government lawyers pursue criminal charges on behalf of state.
Which body confirms U.S. Supreme Court nominations?

The Senate. Upper chamber provides advice and consent for nominations.
What is judicial review?

The power to declare laws unconstitutional. Checks legislative and executive power through constitutional review.
What is the primary function of a jury in a trial?

To determine the facts of a case. Peers evaluate evidence to reach factual conclusions.
What is a writ of certiorari?

An order by a higher court to review a lower court's decision. Supreme Court's discretionary review mechanism for cases.
What is the role of an appellate judge?

To review and rule on appeals. Higher court judges review lower court decisions for errors.
What is the role of a tribunal?

To adjudicate disputes, often in specialized areas. Specialized judicial bodies for specific legal matters.
Which body appoints Supreme Court justices in the U.S.?

The President. Presidential nomination requires Senate confirmation.
What does 'judicial restraint' emphasize?

Minimal interference by courts in policy-making. Courts defer to legislative and executive policy decisions.
Identify the legal principle of 'innocent until proven guilty.'

Presumption of innocence. Fundamental principle requiring proof of guilt before conviction.
Identify the legal term for a court's decision that sets a precedent.

Landmark decision. Significant ruling that establishes new legal precedent.
Which term describes the final decision of a court?

Judgment. Court's binding ruling that resolves the legal dispute.
What is the legal principle of stare decisis?

To stand by decisions and not disturb settled matters. Ensures consistency and predictability in legal decisions.
What is the main function of a constitutional court?

To interpret the constitution and review laws. Specialized court ensuring constitutional compliance of legislation.
What is the function of amicus curiae briefs?

To provide information and arguments from non-parties. Outside parties offer expertise to assist court decisions.
Which judicial system uses precedents as a basis for decision-making?

Common law system. Judge-made law builds through binding precedents over time.
Identify the primary function of appellate courts.

To review the decisions of lower courts. Higher courts examine lower court rulings for errors.
What is the role of a magistrate?

To handle minor legal matters and preliminary hearings. Lower-level judicial officers with limited authority.
Identify the legal concept of double jeopardy.

Being tried twice for the same offense. Constitutional protection against repeat prosecution for same crime.
Which principle ensures laws are applied equally to all?

Rule of law. Fundamental democratic principle ensuring equal treatment under law.
What is the purpose of a preliminary hearing?

To determine if there is enough evidence for trial. Screening process before formal criminal prosecution begins.
Identify the role of a public defender.

To provide legal representation to those unable to afford it. Ensures equal access to legal defense regardless of income.
What does the term 'remand' mean in legal context?

To send a case back to a lower court for further action. Returns case to lower court for additional proceedings.
What term describes the independence of the judiciary from other branches?

Judicial independence. Protects courts from political pressure and interference.
What does 'ex post facto' law mean?

A law applied retroactively to the detriment of an individual. Prohibits retroactive laws that criminalize past actions.
What is the term for laws derived from judicial decisions?

Case law. Judicial precedents create binding legal rules and principles.
What is the primary role of the judiciary in a democracy?

To uphold the rule of law. Courts protect constitutional principles and individual rights.
What is the role of a constitutional court?

To rule on the constitutionality of laws. Specialized courts ensure laws comply with constitutional principles.
Which judicial role involves interpreting the law and ensuring justice?

Judges. Impartial arbiters who apply law to resolve disputes fairly.

Study these flashcards