Civics Test Term 4

Question 1

Difference between rules and laws.

Answer 1

A rule is a regulation imposed on members of a specific group so they can work together in a peaceful manner. Laws are made by official government bodies such as parliament, councils and courts.

Question 2

Who are laws in forced by?

Answer 2

Laws are enforced by the police, and courts.

Question 3

Commonwealth and stated responsibilities.

Answer 3

Commonwealth: Currency, Border security.
State: Police, Schooling.

Question 4

2 ways justice can be undermined.

Answer 4

1. Corruption, people with authority use there power for evil. This can include bribery, and altering case results.
2. Trial by media can alter someone’s innocence before they face court. Jurors feel pressure to find a person guilty or not guilty.

Question 5

Difference between criminal law and civil law.

Answer 5

Criminal cases are those in which an individual is referred to as the accuser of an illegal act. This is taken to court and prosecuted by the government.
Civil cases involve disputes between individuals and alleged breach of their rights, for example negligence or defamation.

Question 6

Offences are dealt with by different courts.

Answer 6

Magistrate:
All minor criminal cases. Civil cases where the amount of money does not exceed $75000.
District:
Power to hear undecided and serios criminal offences except maximum penalties. For civil court limit of $750000
Supreme: Power to hear all serious criminal offences and civil disputes, not money limit.

Question 7

Individual wronged in civil cases.

Answer 7

The plaintiff.

Question 8

Beyond reasonable doubt

Answer 8

100% sure

Question 9

Balance of probabilities

Answer 9

51% or more.

Question 10

Why do family courts exist?

Answer 10

To deal with personal sensitive matters involving children and families.

Question 11

What is common law?

Answer 11

Judge made decisions of cases recorded as a reference for future cases.

Question 12

What is a precedent?

Answer 12

A decision from a previous court that may be binding or persuasive to other court cases.

Question 13

How old do you have to be to be heard in court?

Answer 13

10 years old. Most 10-year-olds know the difference between right and wrong.

Question 14

2 Penalties that can be handed down by the children’s court.

Answer 14

1. Juvenal detention.
2. Community service.

Question 15

Why are Penalties from Children Courts Different.

Answer 15

They aim to rehabilitate the children so they are fit for society.

Question 16

How many people in a Jury?

Answer 16

12

Question 17

Do you have to attend jury if you are called?

Answer 17

Yes, if you are called you must attend, if not you may be fined.

Question 18

Advantages and Disadvantages of Trail by Jury:

Answer 18

Disadvantages:
Affected by media, bias jury, Lack of legal expertise, Stress and pressure to make a decision.
Advantages:
Community representation, prevention of bias, prevents government corruption, moral judgment.