Supreme court and politics Flashcards
Q: How many justices are there in the Supreme Court?
A: The Supreme Court consists of nine justices.
Q: How are Supreme Court justices appointed?
A: Justices are appointed for life by the President with the Senate’s consent.
Q: What is the concept of certiorari?
A: Certiorari refers to a type of writ seeking judicial review. The Supreme Court only hears a small percentage of cases appealed to it, most are denied certiorari.
Q: What are some factors that influence the evolution of the Court?
A: The Court is influenced by changing societal attitudes and political shifts, and the philosophy of justices impacts its judicial agenda and decision-making.
Q: What is judicial review?
A: Judicial review is a principle that allows the Supreme Court to declare a law unconstitutional, established by the Marbury v. Madison case.
Q: How does the Court enforce its decisions?
A: The Court lacks direct enforcement mechanisms like a police force or army, and relies on other branches of government for enforcing decisions.
Q: How has the role of the Supreme Court changed over time?
A: The Court’s stance on issues has evolved in response to societal and political climates. Examples include the transition from anti-regulation to pro-regulation during the Great Depression, and advancing defendant rights during the Warren Court period in the 1960s.
Q: What is the relationship between the Supreme Court and legislation?
A: The Supreme Court can overturn its own decisions and those of Congress. Its role in economic policy has grown more complex over time.
