| A | B |
|---|
| Guiding principles | Precedent |
| Believe that the Constitution and other laws must be interrupted in light of current political and social conditions | Loose Constructionist |
| Authority to hear a case’s initial trial | Original Jurisdiction |
| Federal courts designed to hear appeals of cases | Courts of Appeals |
| Authority to review cases previously decided by a lower court | Appellate Jurisdiction |
| Executive Branch allows senators in the President’s party to approve or disapprove each potential nominee | Senatorial Courtesy |
| Court’s schedule | Docket |
| Reflects the views of the majority of the Court | Majority Opinion |
| A justice’s written opinion that disagrees with the majority and explains on what grounds | Dissenting Opinion |
| Limited use of judicial power | Judicial Restraint |
| Common Law | Judge-made law based on earlier court cases |
| Juvenile Delinquents | Young offenders |
| Statutory Interpretation | Courts decide the meaning of laws that have been passe |
| Administrative Law | Regulations made by executive departments and independent agencie |
| Misdemeanor | Less serious crimes |
| Defendant | The party being charged |
| Bond | Bail money that is held as security and returned when the defendant appears in trial |
| Grand Jury | 12 to 23 people who decide if the there is enough evidence to try an accused person |
| Arraignment | The accused is formally notified of the charges against them and is asked to enter a plea. |
| Petit Jury | Trial jury of people to decide if the accused is guilty or not guilty |
| Peremptory Challenge | Dismissing a juror without giving a reason |
| Subpoena | Court order requiring the person’s presence |
| Plea Bargain | Agreeing to plead guilty to a less serious charge |
| Parole | Early release from prison |
