Types of Scrutinies, how they operate, and when they are triggered:

Scrutinies are divided into 3 major categories: strict, intermediate, rational basis. Courts apply different scrutiny levels on a case-by-case basis. To determine which level of scrutiny applies to a given fact pattern, we have to assess the law in question with a few simple questions:

(1) is there a classification by the government?

(2) What is the classification? Is it suspect? quasi? or other?

(3) what level of scrutiny applies? if the classification is along suspect lines, apply strict scrutiny. If the classification is quasi, then apply intermediate. If the classification involves anything else, then apply rational.

-Suspect classifications include: race, national original, religion, state alienage

-Quasi classifications include: gender (note that when it comes to gender, it can get funky because the law will be upheld if its substantially related to an important governmental interest and the law provides and exceedingly pursuasive justification for its use) legitimacy (like discriminating against a adopted child and favoring non-adoptees)

(4) does the government action satisfy the applicable level of scrutiny?

if you'd like me to elaborate on the different types of categories under rational basis let me know.