Competency 2 Pre-Quiz PSCI 2306

.docx

School

Texas A&M University, Commerce *

*We aren’t endorsed by this school

Course

2306

Subject

Political Science

Date

Apr 3, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

Uploaded by MasterWombat3606

Open ended Paragraph Answer: Four thorough sentences minimum for full points. - In your own words what are some pros and cons of partisan elections for judges in Texas? Partisan elections for judges in Texas offer a direct means for voters to shape the composition of the judiciary, ensuring democratic representation. However, these elections also raise concerns regarding the influence of special interests and the potential for polarization within the judiciary. Despite providing transparency through candidates openly declaring their party affiliations, partisan elections may lead to judges being perceived as aligned with certain ideologies rather than impartially interpreting the law. The increasing cost of campaigns raises questions about the role of money in politics and its impact on the integrity of the judicial selection process. Overall, while partisan elections provide accountability and the potential for change, they also present challenges related to influence, polarization, transparency, and campaign financing. Paragraph answer: Four thorough sentences for full points. - What is the difference between a state bureaucratic agency or commission and an interest group. Give examples and be specifc on the difference. A state bureaucratic agency or commission is a government entity responsible for implementing and enforcing laws within a specific jurisdiction, operating under official authority granted by law. Examples include the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), which oversees the state's transportation system. In contrast, an interest group is a private organization that aims to influence public policy decisions on behalf of its members or constituents, such as the Texas Association of Realtors (TAR), which advocates for policies benefiting the real estate industry. While bureaucratic agencies have governmental authority and enforce regulations, interest groups operate independently of the government and seek to shape policy through advocacy and lobbying efforts. Despite their different roles, both bureaucratic agencies and interest groups play significant roles in influencing public policy in Texas and beyond. ESSAY QUESTION: A minimum of 3 thorough paragraphs with cited sources for full points. Review and prepare for the post test.

- Describe and evaluate the differences between city and county governments. Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of both and how these structures work with state government. The City Governments are local, and they provide services but with limits, and within the city limits. They may provide city utilities such as water, electricity, and waste removal. Bigger cities have City Police, and the city may build city streets. City governments excel in delivering focused and efficient services tailored to the needs of urban populations, fostering close connections with residents to address community concerns effectively. Essential services like police and fire protection, street maintenance, and sanitation are typically managed efficiently under city governance structures. However, challenges arise due to limited resources and funding, especially in smaller municipalities where budget constraints impact service delivery. Additionally, the rapid pace of urban growth and development may strain city resources, posing difficulties in meeting infrastructure demands and sustaining service provision The County Government enforces the state’s laws and policies. Counties provide services locally and tailored to fit the needs of the local community and they can do this because they are run by the locals and connected to the people. County governments cover extensive geographical areas, allowing them to provide a wide range of services to urban and rural communities alike. They oversee essential services such as public transportation, parks, and health services across diverse populations. However, they encounter challenges in effectively serving these varied needs, including balancing resource allocation and addressing logistical hurdles. Coordinating services and resources can be difficult, particularly in regions with significant demographic and socioeconomic disparities, impacting service accessibility and equity across communities. Texas Counties. (2016, August 26). What’s the difference between your city, state and county government? [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K7us7syDw88 - Do you believe that city and county governments should have less or more power? Support your argument. For example, a county that bans something through an election and the state negates that decision.

Essay Question: For post test needs to be 3 paragraphs, cited source and analysis for full points. - Review the types of courts in the state of Texas and the judges that preside over them. Take two examples and thoroughly evaluate the types of cases they hear; and in particular what are the qualifications of the judge(s) who reside over that type of court. I do not want only a list of the cases, I want you to critically think about the crimes being brought to the court and the judicial authority presiding over them. I n the state of Texas, the court system comprises various levels, each with specific jurisdictions and judges presiding over them. For instance, consider the County Court at Law, which hears a range of cases, including misdemeanors, DWI offenses, and family law matters. The qualifications of judges in these courts typically include being licensed attorneys with a minimum number of years of legal experience. They are often elected through partisan elections, requiring them to campaign for their positions, which may influence their judicial decisions to some extent. Despite being lower-level courts, the judges are expected to uphold the law impartially and fairly adjudicate cases brought before them. On the other hand, let's examine the District Court, which serves as the chief trial court in Texas, hearing felony cases and significant civil disputes. The judges presiding over District Courts are required to possess extensive legal experience, often having practiced law for many years or served as prosecutors or defense attorneys. They are usually elected through partisan elections or appointed by the governor, depending on the vacancy. These judges have significant authority and responsibility in adjudicating serious criminal matters and high-stakes civil disputes, necessitating a thorough understanding of legal principles and procedures. Analyzing the correlation between the types of cases heard in these courts and the qualifications of the judges reveals several critical aspects. Firstly, the selection process of judges, whether through elections or appointments, may influence the judicial authority's disposition and decision-making. Moreover, the level of education and experience required for judges in each court reflects the complexity and severity of the cases they handle. However, oversight mechanisms for judges' conduct and decisions are essential to ensure accountability

and maintain public trust in the judiciary. Overall, there appears to be a correlation between the nature of cases processed in these courts and the level of judicial authority, emphasizing the importance of judicial qualifications and oversight in upholding justice and fairness in the legal system GOVT 2306 NOTES - INSTITUTIONS . (n.d.). https://www.amyglenn.com/POLS/govt2306institut.htm#courts “TJB | about Texas Courts | Trial Courts.” Txcourts.gov , 2019, www.txcourts.gov/about-texas- courts/trial-courts/ . Judge Qualifications and selection in the State of Texas. (n.d.). https://www.txcourts.gov/media/1454620/judge-qualifications-and-selection- chart_07262022.pdf Paragraph Answer: Four thorough sentences. - Explain the roles played by Special Districts; what makes them different than city or county government? Special districts in Texas serve as units of local government dedicated to performing a specific function within a designated geographic area, catering to the needs of a particular group of people. Unlike city or county governments, which have broader jurisdictions and multifaceted responsibilities, special districts focus on addressing specific problems or providing specialized services, such as water and soil conservation, utility management, healthcare, or education. These districts are established through voter approval and are typically financed through taxes, with revenue primarily sourced from property taxes. Unlike city or county governments, which handle a range of services and functions, special districts are more narrowly focused on addressing particular needs or concerns within their defined areas of operation. Paragraph Question: Four thorough sentences minimum for full points. - Explain and describe the sources and hierarchy of Texas law within the court systems.

Within the Texas legal system, a hierarchical structure governs the sources of law. At the pinnacle stands the state constitution, serving as the ultimate authority. Statutes enacted by the Texas Legislature follow, covering a wide spectrum of legal matters. Court decisions, notably those from the Texas Supreme Court and the Court of Criminal Appeals, establish precedents guiding subsequent legal interpretations. Additionally, administrative regulations issued by state agencies and local ordinances passed by city councils and county commissioners contribute to the multifaceted legal landscape within the state Essay Question - Review and prepare. For post-test needs 3 paragraphs, cited source, and analysis for full points. REMEMBER this is TEXAS government; you are looking up your state officials (not U.S.) If you do not live in Texas, please let me know and we will get a city in Texas for you to use. - What Texas State Senate District do you live in? Who is your State senator? - What Texas House district do you live in? Who is your State House representative. - Identify what committee's they are appointed to; what bills did they sponsor or support; were these bills passed? Does this information correlate with their expertise/background? - Again end with paragraph analyzing your research; think critically. - You will be surprised at the types of bills which are presented. I would recommend using the state websites. Jill Dutton serves as the State House Representative for Texas House District 2. As a member of the Texas House of Representatives, Dutton represents the interests of her constituents in District 2. She is actively involved in legislative affairs, serving on various committees aimed at addressing key issues facing her district and the state as a whole. One significant committee she serves on is the Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety, which plays a crucial role in shaping policies related to public safety and emergency management. Additionally, Dutton has sponsored bills focused on education reform, infrastructure development, and economic revitalization within her district. Notably, her

support for initiatives promoting job growth and workforce development aligns with the economic needs of District 2. On the other hand, Angela Paxton represents Texas Senate District 8 in the Texas State Senate. As a State Senator, Paxton advocates for the interests of her constituents in District 8 and plays a pivotal role in shaping statewide legislation. She brings her legal background and expertise to her role, serving on committees such as the Senate Committee on State Affairs and the Senate Committee on Education. Paxton has sponsored bills addressing various issues, including healthcare, education, and criminal justice reform. Notably, her sponsorship of bills related to healthcare access and affordability underscores her commitment to addressing critical healthcare needs within her district and across Texas. The legislative actions and committee appointments of both Jill Dutton and Angela Paxton reflect their dedication to serving their constituents and addressing the pressing issues facing their respective districts and the state as a whole. Through their sponsorship of bills and participation in key committees, they strive to enact positive change and improve the lives of Texans. Their expertise and background contribute to their effectiveness as legislators, allowing them to craft informed policies that address the diverse needs of their constituents. As constituents, it is crucial to analyze their legislative records and hold them accountable for their actions, ensuring that their efforts align with the best interests of the communities they represent. Council, T. L. (n.d.). Who represents me? https://wrm.capitol.texas.gov/home The texas state senate – senator Angela Paxton: District 8 . The Texas State Senate – HOME. (n.d.). https://www.senate.texas.gov/member.php?d=8 Representatives, T. H. of. (n.d.). Texas House of Representatives. https://www.house.texas.gov/members/member-page/?district=2 Paragraph Question: Four thorough sentences for full points. - What are the steps involved in Texas Civil Court processes? The Texas Civil Court process commences with the plaintiff filing a petition and serving it to the defendant, who then responds accordingly. Subsequently, both parties engage in pretrial discovery to exchange relevant information and evidence. Following this phase, attempts at mediation or settlement negotiations may take

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version

Access to all documents
Unlimited textbook solutions
24/7 expert homework help