1. Chapter 18.1 The National Judiciary

2. A Dual Court System
There are two separate court systems
The Supreme Court is the top of both court systems
National Court System
Constitutional Courts
Inferior Courts
Over 100 Courts
State Court System
1000s of Local and state courts
Vast majority of court cases seen in local court

3. What court has jurisdiction
Judiciary Act of 1789
Created the Modern Day Court System
State or Federal or both
If the question raises a federal question then it is tried under the federal courts
Case involving a federal crime
Case challenging constitution or act of congress
Case involving a state vs. another state
etc…
Exclusive vs. Concurrent Jurisdiction vs. State jurisdiction
Exclusive Jurisdiction
Concurrent Jurisdiction
State Jurisdiction

4. The impact of judicial philosophy.
Judges interpret the law
How a judge interprets the law most likely reflects their political philosophy
Liberal Democrat
Conservative Republican
Presidents tend to select candidates who align with their personal philosophy
The original meaning of the constitution plays into the argument
Judicial Restraint
Original Intent
Precedent
Defer policy judgments to congress
Judicial Activism
Decisions and interoperation of constitution should reflect changes in society
Social, Cultural, Moral, Technological, Etc… Change

5. Define Inferior Courts
Define Jurisdiction
Define Concurrent Jurisdiction
Define Plaintiff
Define Defendant
Define Original Jurisdiction
Define Appellate Jurisdiction
Define Judicial Restraint
Define Judicial Activism
What are the six reason a case may be tried in a federal court?
How are appellate courts different then trial courts?
Who nominates federal judges?
Who confirms federal judges?
What are the constitutional requirements for a federal judge?
What type of experience do federal judges typically have?
How long are supreme court justices appointed for?

6. Types of Federal Courts The Supreme Court
The Inferior courts
The Constitutional Courts
The Special Courts
Define Inferior Courts?
Define Constitutional Courts?
Define Special Courts?
List each of the inferior courts.
Define Each of the Courts and list how many there are?