chapter 12

amicus curiae

"Friend of the court," briefs coming from individuals, interest groups, or government agencies claiming to have information useful of the Court's consideration of the case

stare decisis

A Latin phrase meaning "stand by past decisions," a principle that judges often use in deciding cases. Ruling based on precedents.

per curiam opinion

A brief, unsigned opinion issued by the Supreme Court to explain its ruling

majority opinion

Expresses the views of the majority of the justices on a case

writ of certiorari

Order by the Supreme Court directing a lower court to send up the records of a case for review

judicial review

Power of US Supreme Court to declare an act of the President, Congress, or state unconstitutional

precedent

a model on which to base later decisions or actions

advisory opinion

a ruling on a law or action that has not been challenged

brief

a written statement setting forth the legal arguments, relevant facts, and precedents supporting one side of a case

bloc

coalition that promotes a common interest

impound

refuse to spend

swing vote

the deciding vote

dissenting opinion

the opinion expressed by the a minority of justices in a court case