2011 FRQ #1

Post date: Apr 05, 2013 5:52:22 PM

1. The United States Supreme Court receives many appeals, but it hears and rules on a small percentage of cases

each year. Numerous factors influence the actions of the Court, both in deciding to hear a case and in the

decisions it hands down. (2011)

a. Define judicial review.

b. Explain how judicial review empowers the Supreme Court within the system of checks and balances.

c. Describe the process through which the Court grants a writ of certiorari.

d. Explain how each of the following influences decisions made by individual justices when deciding cases

heard by the Court.

• Stare decisis

• Judicial activism