| Federal Court of Appeals Judges |
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| The federal court system has an intermediate level appellate court, which is called the court of appeals. The President of the United States appoints all federal judges, including federal court of appeals judges. However, the United States Senate has to confirm each appointment. Federal judges are appointed for life.
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| Freedom of Information Act |
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| The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a federal law that was passed in 1966. It ensures government openness and accountability. The FOIA gives a person access to federal agency records. However, agencies are allowed (but not required) to withhold records that fall within nine categories.
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| Extrajudicial Speech and Judicial Ethics |
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| There are standards of conduct for judges that assure judicial ethics. The goal of the standards is to assure judges' impartiality and avoid improprieties. There are codes of judicial conduct for both state and federal judges. In general, the code of judicial conduct requires a judge to uphold the integrity and independence of the judiciary, avoid the impropriety or the appearance of impropriety in any activities, and perform his/her duties impartially and diligently. Judges are also required to conduct extrajudicial activities in a way that reduces the risk of conflict with judicial duties. More... |
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| Representing Yourself in Court |
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| If you represent yourself in court and don't use an attorney, you are acting "pro se." Pro se is a Latin term that means on your own behalf. In legal terms, you are considered a self-representing party. More... |
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| Amicus Curiae |
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| Amicus curiae is a Latin term meaning a "friend of the court." An amicus curiae is not a party to the lawsuit but is a person or group that has a strong interest in the matter being litigated. The function of an amicus curiae is to bring to the court's attention law, facts, or circumstances in the pending lawsuit that might not otherwise be discussed by the parties to the lawsuit. An amicus curiae's intent is to influence the court's decision. More... |
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