3 Branches of Government

The Judicial Branch

Creation of the Judicial

• Created by the Constitution• These courts are called “Guardians

of the Constitution”– Federal courts decide the

constitutionality of laws• The Judicial Branch’s role is to

interpret the laws and how they are applied to facts in a dispute

• Ensures fairness for all citizens

The Federal Court System

• Jurisdiction – area of power or authority

• Constitution gives Federal Courts Jurisdiction over:– Laws and treaties written by the federal

govt.– Interpreting the Constitution– Disputes involving foreign officials– Maritime Law– Disputes in which the U.S. is involved– Disputes between two or more states– Disputes between U.S. citizens of

different states or with a foreigner

Judges• Types of Federal Judges

– Judges of the Supreme Court– Judges on the Courts of Appeals– Judges in the Federal District Courts– Judges of the Court of International Trade

• Federal Judges are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate

• Appointed for Life but may be Impeached

The Supreme Court of the United States

• Supreme Court is the “Highest Court in the Land”

• It is an Appellate Court• Exercises Judicial Review

– Decides if an act of government conflicts with the Constitution

• 9 Justices– Headed by Chief Justice (John

Roberts)

Supreme Court at Work

• Hears about 150 cases per year

• “Rule of Four” to decide which cases to hear

• Majority Rules