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