1. The Judicial Branch “The Balancing Branch” AP Government: Mr. Tumino
The Court System
The Judicial Branch
“The Balancing Branch”
AP Government: Mr. Tumino

2. Jurisdiction of the Federal Courts
They arise under the Constitution, a federal law, or a treaty.
They arise under admiralty and maritime laws.
They arise because of a dispute involving land claimed under titles granted by two or more states.
The United States is a party to the case.
A state is a party to the case.
They are between citizens of different states.
They affect the accredited representatives of a foreign nation.

3. Factors Constraining Federal Judges
The Constitution
Precedent
Statutory law
Legal scholarship
Opinions of other courts
Interest groups
Public opinion
Media opinion

4. …continued Views of colleagues Views of law clerks
Contemporary events and general social environment
Traditions of the law
Legislative actions
Executive actions
Limitations of time and staffing

5. Types of Law Statutory law Common law Equity law Constitutional law
Admiralty and maritime law
Administrative law
Criminal law
Civil law
International law
Other specialty areas