GED Social Studies - 7th Amendment
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Important Instructions
Please read and answer 18 Questions carefully within
TIME LIMIT 30 min.
The Seventh Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees the right to trial by jury in civil cases. It ensures that litigants have the option to have a jury determine the facts of their case, provided the amount in controversy exceeds twenty dollars. The framers of the Constitution recognized the importance of a jury composed of ordinary citizens as a check against the potential biases of judges. This amendment is unique in that it preserves the role of jury trials in civil disputes and is often viewed as a safeguard for the rights of individuals in legal controversies. By protecting the right to a jury trial, the Seventh Amendment promotes fairness and justice, allowing common people to participate actively in the legal process. Furthermore, the amendment underscores the belief that juries play a crucial role in safeguarding against governmental or elite influence in judicial matters, preserving the integrity of the justice system.
Notable Speeches Related to the 7th Amendment
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Alexander Hamilton - "Federalist No. 83" (1788)
- Context: Hamilton discusses the necessity of jury trials in civil cases, arguing for the protection of individual liberties.
- Speech:
“I contend that the practice of jury trials in civil cases is essential to protect the rights of individuals against the potential overreach of government.”
- Full Text: Federalist No. 83
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Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg - "Speech on the Importance of Jury Trials" (2018)
- Context: Ginsburg emphasized the vital role that jury trials play in safeguarding justice and individual rights through her speeches.
- Speech:
“The right to a jury trial is a cornerstone of our legal system, ensuring that ordinary citizens have a voice in the administration of justice.”
- Full Text: Speech on the Importance of Jury Trials
This compilation reflects key thoughts regarding the significance of jury trials in civil matters, promoting fairness and public participation in the legal system.
Right | Description |
---|---|
Right to a Jury Trial | Ensures that individuals have the right to have their civil disputes adjudicated by a jury of their peers. |
Right in Civil Cases | The Seventh Amendment applies specifically to civil cases, differentiating them from criminal cases protected under the Sixth Amendment. |
Exceeding Twenty Dollars | Jury trials are guaranteed in civil cases where the amount in controversy exceeds twenty dollars. |
Historical Significance | This amendment is rooted in the belief that juries protect individuals from potential government overreach. |
Limits on Re-evaluation | Once a jury has made a decision regarding facts in a civil case, other courts generally will not re-evaluate those facts. |