The Judicial Branch

Article III of the Constitution Supreme Court Lower courts created by Congress Justices/judges appointed by the president with congressional approval

Supreme Court 9 Justices Appointed for life No justice will feel the need to vote a certain way to gain favor with any party Can be impeached by Congress http://www.supremecourt.gov/

Chief Justice Duties Leader of the court – “first among equals” Authority to preside over case conferences and assigns the writing of opinions

SCOTUS Terms Rulings Other Terms Majority Dissent Concurring Amicus Curiae Brief – friend of the court Docket – list of cases to be heard Petitioner Respondent

Jurisdiction Supreme Court has original and appellate jurisdiction

Important Amendments 4th Amendment 5th Amendment 6th Amendment Search and Seizure 5th Amendment Grand Jury, Double Jeopardy, Self-Incrimination, Due Process 6th Amendment Common Law Suits - Jury Trial 8th Amendment Excess Bail or Fines, Cruel and Unusual Punishment