Reading Assignment for Section 2.1

Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 2.1: Dual Federalism.

What You Will Learn

In this section, you’ll learn about the dual court system in the United States and how federal courts handle state cases. You’ll also explore the checks and balances that limit court power, and understand the “layer cake” and “marble cake” analogies for describing federalism today. Additionally, you’ll gain insights into the role of local governments in the criminal justice system.

Student Learning Outcomes for Section 2.1

• SLO 1: Explain the concept of dual federalism and describe how the division of power between federal, state, and local governments affects the administration of criminal justice.
• SLO 2: Identify the structure and function of the federal and state court systems, including the roles of District Courts, Courts of Appeals, and the Supreme Court of the United States.
• SLO 3: Analyze the impact of the supremacy clause on conflicts between federal and state laws, and discuss its importance in maintaining legal consistency across jurisdictions.
• SLO 4: Describe the roles of federal and state executives in enforcing laws and assess how intergovernmental cooperation enhances law enforcement efforts.
• SLO 5: Evaluate the contributions of local governments to the criminal justice system and discuss the importance of coordination among federal, state, and local entities for effective justice administration.