The Court in Action - AP Government and Politics

A judicial opinion agreed to by more than half of the court. Establishes binding precedent and court's official reasoning.

An opinion disagreeing with the majority in a court ruling. Expresses disagreement and alternative legal reasoning.

An opinion that agrees with the majority outcome but for different reasons. Agrees with result but offers different legal rationale.

Right to counsel for defendants unable to afford an attorney. Guaranteed under Sixth Amendment for all criminal defendants.

Marbury v. Madison (1803). Marshall's decision created judicial review precedent in 1803.

To interpret the Constitution and ensure laws comply with it. Final constitutional interpreter and guardian of federal law.

Four justices must agree to grant a writ of certiorari. Minimum votes needed to review a case on appeal.

Cases involving constitutional or federal law issues. Focuses on significant legal questions and constitutional matters.

Legalized abortion nationwide under the right to privacy. Based decision on Fourteenth Amendment privacy rights.

Represents the federal government before the Supreme Court. Chief advocate for federal government in Supreme Court cases.

McCulloch v. Maryland (1819). Established federal law supremacy over conflicting state laws.

Mapp v. Ohio (1961). Illegally obtained evidence cannot be used in court proceedings.

Korematsu v. United States (1944). Upheld wartime internment based on military necessity claims.

Limited presidential power through the rejection of absolute executive privilege. Executive privilege exists but is not absolute or unlimited.

Judges making decisions based on personal views or policy considerations. Courts actively interpret law to promote social change.

Tinker v. Des Moines (1969). Students retain constitutional rights in public school settings.

Struck down laws banning interracial marriage. Marriage is fundamental right regardless of racial differences.

Judges limiting their power by deferring to elected branches and precedent. Courts avoid policy-making and defer to legislative intent.

Regents of the University of California v. Bakke (1978). Race can be factor but not sole basis for admissions.

Resolved the 2000 presidential election dispute. Stopped Florida recount and effectively decided presidential election.

Miranda v. Arizona (1966). Required police to inform suspects of their constitutional rights.

Presides over court sessions, administers oaths, leads the federal judiciary. Senior justice with additional administrative and ceremonial duties.

Plessy v. Ferguson (1896). Upheld racial segregation for nearly 60 years until Brown.

Four justices must agree to grant a writ of certiorari. Minimum votes needed to review a case on appeal.

The Judicial Branch. One of three co-equal branches under separation of powers.

An order by which a higher court reviews a lower court's decision. Latin for 'to be informed'; grants discretionary review.

An opinion disagreeing with the majority in a court ruling. Expresses disagreement and alternative legal reasoning.

The Fourth Amendment. Protects against unreasonable searches and requires warrants.

Established the requirement of Miranda warnings for detained suspects. Protects Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination.