Chapter 4 Study Questions

  1. Key terms on page 151
  2. How do the vast majority of trials end in trial courts?  What percentage of criminal cases are decided at trial? 
  3. What does the concept of federalism entail, and how is it reflected in our court system?
  4. Which circuit is North Carolina a part of in terms of the US Courts of Appeals? 
  5. How many petitions for certiorari does the Supreme Court typically receive each term?  Of these, about how many do the justices actually hear arguments on/issue opinions on?
  6. On what basis does the Supreme Court decide to hear a case?  That is, how many justices must vote to hear a case, and what factor is most likely to prompt them to agree to hear a case?
  7. In what types of cases does the Supreme Court have original jurisdiction?
  8. For how long do federal judges serve on the bench once they are confirmed?  Why is this the case?
  9. What is the confirmation process that a nominee for a federal judgeship must go through?
  10. Through what means can the courts exercise their power? 
  11. How can the power of judges/justices be limited? 
                                                                                         Return to Study Guide page                         Return to Class page
Home