Do you know the role of Judges? Our constitutional illiteracy shows up in misconceptions about their job. You might be surprised by the truth behind the Judge’s role in our Constitutional Republic. Let’s take a look: Authority Myth 1. Judges do not have the authority to make laws. That authority belongs solely to the Legislative […]
The Judicial Branch and You
With this week’s wealth of negative news, let’s focus on something concrete and trustworthy. Let’s look at Article III of the Constitution, which establishes the federal government’s Judicial Branch. Article III is short. The Judicial Branch, which seems so complicated, is understandable. I’ll be teaching some of this material to teenagers this week. Let’s refresh […]
The Duty of “Civic Duty”
Thank you for returning to Common Sense Civics and Citizenship. Courts and the justice system are in the spotlight big-time this week. Maybe you watched wall-to-wall coverage of the Rittenhouse trial… or maybe not. One thing for sure, we are all reminded of our civic duty, which isn’t really taught much these days. We cover […]
Justice Clarence Thomas’ Dissent-a learning opportunity
So many voices, and for me, so little clarity. Let’s do some discovery. Justice Clarence Thomas issued a dissenting opinion on the Pennsylvania election case, specifically, the denial of a writ of certiorari. (What is that? See below) His writing presents a learning opportunity for us. The opinion is short, readable, understandable, and gives us […]
Understanding Article III: The Judiciary Explained
Today we’re taking a look at Article III of the U.S. Constitution, which sets up the federal government’s Judicial Branch. Article III is short. The Judicial Branch, which seems so complicated, is understandable. Let’s have a “go” at it. The U.S. Constitution establishes the Supreme Court Congress sets up or has the authority to abolish […]
The Judicial Branch
Since May and June are the months that the Supreme Court announces opinions, let’s review what the Constitution says about the Judicial Branch in the U.S. Constitution, Article III. First, the Supreme Court cannot enforce the law, nor does the Constitution give the high court any power to make the law. Its job is to […]
