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What is Certiorari? | Civics Matter

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Glossary
Certiorari

Civics Glossary

Certiorari

Judicial

Last verified: June 2026

Definition

The process by which the Supreme Court decides to hear a case. Four justices must vote to hear it.

More Judicial Terms

Amicus Brief

A legal document filed by a non-party ("friend of the court") in a case.

Dissent

A written opinion by justices who disagree with the majority decision.

Due Process

The constitutional guarantee that the government must follow fair procedures before depriving a person of life, liberty, or property.

Equal Protection

The 14th Amendment guarantee that no state shall deny any person "equal protection of the laws."

Habeas Corpus

A legal principle requiring the government to justify imprisonment of a detained person before a court.

Judicial Review

The power of courts to determine whether laws and executive actions are constitutional. Established by Marbury v. Madison.

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