Civics - EOC Review - Topic 3 Flashcards

Front

The idea that the power to govern should be divided among branches of government to prevent any one branch from having too much power. Divided among legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

Back

Separation of powers

Front

The part of government responsible for making laws. In the United States, Congress makes up the federal legislative branch.

Back

Legislative branch

Front

The part of government responsible for executing and enforcing laws. The president heads the federal executive branch in the United States.

Back

Executive branch

Front

The part of government that decides questions of law. The federal courts make up this branch for the federal government. The highest court is the U.S. Supreme Court.

Back

Judicial branch

Front

A system that adds an extra safeguard to the separation of powers. Each branch of government has powers that check, or limit, the powers of the other two.

Back

Checks and balances

Front

The principle that all people, including those who govern, are bound by laws. No one is above the law, and the Constitution provides for the rule of law.

Back

Rule of law

Front

A court order requiring law enforcement to bring a prisoner before a judge and explain why the person is being held. Article I, Section 9 of the Constitution bars Congress from blocking it except in times of rebellion or invasion.

Back

Writ of habeas corpus

Front

A law that makes an act a crime after the act has been committed. Article I, Section 9 of the Constitution bars Congress from enacting such laws.

Back

Ex post facto law

Front

A law that finds a person guilty of a crime and imposes punishment without a trial. Article I, Section 9 of the Constitution bars Congress from enacting bills of attainder.

Back

Bill of attainder

Front

Part of the Bill of Rights. Limits Congress by stating that Congress may not pass laws that restrict rights such as freedom of speech, freedom of the press, or the right to assemble peacefully.

Back

First Amendment