The U.S. federal judiciary, established by the Constitution, comprises the Supreme Court and lower federal courts. It interprets laws, assesses constitutionality, and resolves disputes. The Supreme Court's role has evolved, gaining discretionary jurisdiction over significant cases. Federal courts are restricted to actual cases and controversies, with jurisdiction over federal law matters, treaties, and interstate disputes. Judicial review and state sovereignty are key in federal-state relations, while treason is narrowly defined to protect civil liberties.
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The federal judiciary is responsible for interpreting the law, determining the constitutionality of legislation, and resolving legal disputes
Supreme Court
The Supreme Court, established through Article III of the Constitution, serves as the highest court in the federal judiciary
Inferior Courts
Congress has the power to establish inferior courts, which serve as trial courts and handle appeals
The role of the federal judiciary has evolved since its inception, with the establishment of the circuit court system in 1891 and the Supreme Court's discretionary jurisdiction
Federal courts are limited to adjudicating actual cases and controversies, with jurisdiction over matters arising under federal laws, treaties, maritime law, and disputes between diverse parties
The federal judiciary has the power of judicial review to assess the constitutionality of legislative and executive actions, while also respecting state sovereignty and recognizing state court judgments
The Constitution narrowly defines treason against the United States and protects against its misuse for political purposes, while also safeguarding the right to dissent and protecting civil liberties
The amendment process, outlined in Article V of the Constitution, allows for constitutional evolution while protecting foundational principles
Article VI establishes the supremacy of federal law and mandates that all government officials swear an oath to support the Constitution
Article VII specifies the original ratification process, which required the approval of nine out of thirteen states, and the Constitution has been amended twenty-seven times
00
The ______ Act of 1789 and Title 28 of the U.S. Code detail the organization of ______ courts.
Judiciary
federal
01
The Supreme Court has ______ jurisdiction in cases involving ______ or when a state is involved.
original
ambassadors
02
Establishment of Circuit Court System Year
Circuit court system established in 1891.
