law and policy

Our legal system is a crucial part of maintaining oversight of liberty and of the two other branches of our Federal and State governments, the legislative and executive branches. Our judges have come under attack by President Trump in various settings when decisions have not upheld his Administration’s perspectives (see other resources in this week’s folder for videos).  Let’s take a look at exactly how individuals become Federal judges or Supreme Court Justices. 

Remember - there was an empty Supreme Court seat and President Obama's candidate, Merrick Garland was NOT EVEN INTERVIEWED by the Senate - no confirmation hearing at all. Who got that seat? how did that happen - keep these things in mind as you read. As justices retire, the President of the United States will nominate replacements who support his viewpoints thus shaping the courts and laws for decades. Think about the process!!

What happened during the confirmation of the latest Justice Brett Kavanaugh? How might his confirmation change the court and decisions? 

https://www.supremecourt.gov/about/biographies.aspx

http://www.cafc.uscourts.gov/judges

Select a judge or justice and discuss their credentials and background.

Select a case for which the judge or justice is famous and discuss why that case is important.