Understanding the Judicial Branch

The video tutorial covers the judicial branch of the federal government, focusing on its structure, jurisdiction, and power. It explains the hierarchy of federal courts, including the Supreme Court, courts of appeals, and district courts. The concept of judicial review is discussed, highlighting its role in checking the power of other government branches. Key cases and documents like Federalist 78 and Marbury vs Madison are referenced to illustrate the development and importance of judicial review.

What is the primary function of judicial review?

• To enforce laws

• To amend the Constitution

• To interpret the constitutionality of laws

• To create new laws

Which court is at the top of the federal court system?

• Supreme Court

• District Court

• State Court

• Court of Appeals

How are Supreme Court judges appointed?

• Selected by the Supreme Court itself

• Appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate

• Elected by the public

• Chosen by the House of Representatives

What type of jurisdiction allows a court to hear a case for the first time?

• Appellate jurisdiction

• Original jurisdiction

• Concurrent jurisdiction

• Exclusive jurisdiction

Which act established the structure and jurisdiction of the lower federal courts?

• Judicial Powers Act of 1790

• Federal Courts Act of 1801

• Constitutional Act of 1787

• Judiciary Act of 1789

What is the role of the Courts of Appeals?

• To hear cases for the first time

• To review decisions made by lower courts

• To enforce laws

• To create new laws

What is the primary role of the District Courts?

• To hear appeals

• To interpret the Constitution

• To conduct trials with a judge and jury

• To create federal laws

Which document argued for the independence of the judicial branch?

• Federalist 10

• Federalist 51

• Federalist 78

• Federalist 85

Who wrote Federalist 78?

• James Madison

• John Jay

• Thomas Jefferson

• Alexander Hamilton

What was the significance of Marbury vs. Madison?

• It established the power of judicial review

• It abolished the Courts of Appeals

• It limited the power of the President

• It created the Supreme Court