Multistate Bar Examination Practice Question

The correct answer is that the U.S. Supreme Court has jurisdiction to review a state court judgment only when the judgment is based on federal law and is not adequately supported by an independent and adequate state law ground. This doctrine ensures that the Supreme Court reviews only cases in which federal law was a necessary basis for the judgment. Other options fail because mere references to federal law or a mix of state and federal analysis do not necessarily mean the judgment depends on federal law. If state law alone is sufficient and independent in supporting the decision, the Court lacks jurisdiction.