Charles Schenck, a U.S. citizen, was responsible for printing & distributing leaflets that explained why he was against the draft (required military service) during World War I. He was charged with violating the Espionage Act of 1917, a federal law that outlawed any action that got in the way of military operations. He believed that the law in question violated his right to free speech. In which court would this case be tried, and why?

A state court because it involved violation of criminal law.

The Supreme Court of the United States because it involved constitutional law.

Question

Charles Schenck, a U.S. citizen, was responsible for printing & distributing leaflets that explained why he was against the draft (required military service) during World War I. He was charged with violating the Espionage Act of 1917, a federal law that outlawed any action that got in the way of military operations. He believed that the law in question violated his right to free speech. In which court would this case be tried, and why?

 A state court because it involved violation of criminal law.

 The Supreme Court of the United States because it involved constitutional law.

anonymous · Answer

A county civil court because it involved violation of civil liberties.

 A military tribunal because the matter involved prospective military draftees.