Chapter 1 - Introduction to Law Flashcards
Define Federalism
A double-layered system of government, with the national and state governments each exercising important but limited powers.
Define Legislative Power
The ability to create new laws
Define Executive Power
The authority to enforce laws
Define Judicial Power
The power to interpret laws and determine their validity.
Define Bill
An idea for a new law
Define Statute
A law that passed by Congress or state legislature
Define Veto
Constitutional right of the president to reject a decision or proposal made by congress. Overturned by a 2/3 majority by the House and the Senate
Define Stare Decisis
The principal that precedent is binding on later cases.
It means “Let the decision stand”
Define Precedent
An earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in subsequent similar circumstances
Where is precedent binding?
Only in lower courts.Supreme Court has no obligation to follow precedent.
Define Injunction
Court order to stop doing something
Define Criminal Law
Concerns behavior so threatening that society outlaws it altogether
Define Civil Law
Regulated the rights and duties between parties.
Define Regulation
Laws created by Administrative agencies
How are basic criminal law prosecutions handled?
The government prosecutes the wrongdoer, regardless of what the injured party wants. A district attorney brings the case to court. The injured party is not in charge of the case, but may appear as a witness. The government will seek to punish the defendant with a prison sentence, fine, or both. The money won goes the the state.
