3. Decisions of the Supreme Court are taken by a two-thirds majority
by a simple majority
by a consensus
4. The courts of appeals were established to hear most of the appeals growing out of state courts
district courts
special courts
5. Judges of special courts are appointed for two years
for four years
for life
III. Find out whether the statement is true or false according to the information in the text: The Congress has the authority to create and abolish federal courts, as well as to determine the number of judges in the federal judicial system.
The federal judges are appointed by the Congress for life, in practice, until they die, retire or resign.
The Supreme Court consists of a Chief Justice and nine Associate Justices.
Most of the cases heard by the Supreme Court are on appeal from lower federal courts.
Each state has at least two district courts.
Usually claims are for unpaid salary, property taken for public use, contractual obligations, and personal injuries for which the Federal Covernment is allegedly responsible.
Another important special court is the Customs Court, which has exclusive jurisdiction over cases, connected with monetary problems.
IV. Questions: Analyse the judicial branch of power of the United States.
Examine the federal court system.
What are the powers of federal and state courts?
The Supreme Court — the highest court of the country.
Describe the structure and chief functions of the Appeals Courts.
What is the role of the district courts?