Chapter 16: Section 2 Flashcards
Plaintiff
The party that initiates a lawsuit.
Standing
A legal rule stating who is authorized to start a lawsuit
Sovereign Immunity
A rule that a citizen cannot sue the government without the government’s consent
Class-Action Suit
A case brought on by someone to help both himself/herself and all others who are similarly situationed.
Brief
A written statement by an attorney that summarizes a case and laws and rulings that support it.
Amicus Curiae
A brief submitted by a “friend of the court”
Per Curiam Opinion
A brief, unsigned, court opinion
Opinion of the Court
A signed opinion of a majority of the Supreme Court
Concurring Opinion
A signed opinion in which one or more members agree with the majority view but for different reasons.
Dissenting Opinion
A signed opinion in which one or more justices disagree with the majority view
Stare Decisis
“Let the decision stand” or allowing prior rulings to control ththe current case
Political Question
An issue the Supreme Court will allow the executive and legislative branches to decide
Remedy
A judicial order enforcing a right or redressing a wrong
Fee Shifting
A rule that allows a plaintiff to recover costs form the defendant if the plaintiff wins
