NALA U.S. Legal System Principles Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following BEST describes the principle of stare decisis?

Accepted Answer

The doctrine that requires courts to follow historical cases and precedents when making a ruling on a similar current case.

Answer

The court's authority over the parties involved in a lawsuit.

Answer

The process of selecting a jury for a trial.

Answer

A motion to dismiss a case due to lack of evidence.

Question 2

A plaintiff from California files a lawsuit in federal court against a defendant from Arizona for $80,000, alleging a breach of contract. On what basis can the federal court most likely exercise subject-matter jurisdiction?

Accepted Answer

Diversity jurisdiction

Answer

Federal question jurisdiction

Answer

Pendent jurisdiction

Answer

Personal jurisdiction

Question 3

In the U.S. federal court system, which court is the primary trial court with the authority to hear both civil and criminal cases?

Accepted Answer

The District Court

Answer

The Supreme Court

Answer

The Court of Appeals

Answer

The Bankruptcy Court

Question 4

Which of the following is NOT considered a primary source of law in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Legal encyclopedias and treatises

Answer

The U.S. Constitution

Answer

Statutes enacted by Congress

Answer

Case law from judicial decisions

Question 5

A company is sued for negligence after a customer slips and falls on a wet floor in their store. To win the case, what is the standard of proof the plaintiff's attorney must typically meet in this civil action?

Accepted Answer

Preponderance of the evidence

Answer

Beyond a reasonable doubt

Answer

Clear and convincing evidence

Answer

Probable cause

Question 6

A court's power over a specific type of case (e.g., bankruptcy, family law) is referred to as:

Accepted Answer

Subject-matter jurisdiction

Answer

Personal jurisdiction

Answer

In rem jurisdiction

Answer

Venue