1. The Judicial Branch

2. Article III of the Constitution
Supreme Court
Lower courts created by Congress
Justices/judges appointed by the president with congressional approval

3. Supreme Court 9 Justices Appointed for life
No justice will feel the need to vote a certain way to gain favor with any party
Can be impeached by Congress

5. Chief Justice Duties Leader of the court – “first among equals”
Authority to preside over case conferences and assigns the writing of opinions

6. SCOTUS Terms Rulings Other Terms Majority Dissent Concurring
Amicus Curiae Brief – friend of the court
Docket – list of cases to be heard
Petitioner
Respondent

7. Jurisdiction
Supreme Court has original and appellate jurisdiction

9. Important Amendments 4th Amendment 5th Amendment 6th Amendment
Search and Seizure
5th Amendment
Grand Jury, Double Jeopardy, Self-Incrimination, Due Process
6th Amendment
Common Law Suits - Jury Trial
8th Amendment
Excess Bail or Fines, Cruel and Unusual Punishment