CP U.S. Legal System 2

Question 1

What is the structure of the federal court system?

Accepted Answer

Three levels: District Courts, Circuit Courts of Appeals, and the Supreme Court

Answer

The federal system has three tiers: 94 District Courts, 13 Circuit Courts of Appeals, and the Supreme Court.

Question 2

What is federal question jurisdiction?

Accepted Answer

Authority to hear cases arising under the Constitution, federal statutes, or treaties

Answer

Under 28 U.S.C. 1331, federal courts have jurisdiction over cases arising under the Constitution, laws, or treaties.

Question 3

What is diversity jurisdiction in federal court?

Accepted Answer

Jurisdiction over cases between citizens of different states where the amount exceeds $75,000

Answer

Under 28 U.S.C. 1332, federal courts have jurisdiction when there is complete diversity and the amount exceeds $75,000.

Question 4

What is the Supremacy Clause and what principle does it establish?

Accepted Answer

Article VI establishes federal law as supreme and prevails over conflicting state law

Answer

Article VI declares the Constitution, federal statutes, and treaties are the supreme law of the land.

Question 5

What is the role of a grand jury in the U.S. legal system?

Accepted Answer

Determine whether sufficient evidence exists to indict a person for a serious crime

Answer

A grand jury reviews prosecution evidence to determine whether probable cause exists for an indictment.

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