Judicial Branch
Definition
The judicial branch interprets laws to decide what they mean and whether they have been followed in specific cases. It's made up primarily of courts - Supreme Court being highest one in land.
Analogy
The judicial branch can be seen as food critics or health inspectors at our metaphorical restaurant.They interpret how well dishes(laws) meet standards set out in recipe(constitution) and whether they've been prepared correctly.
Related terms
Judicial Review: The power of courts to declare laws or executive actions unconstitutional.
Supreme Court: The highest federal court in the United States, consisting of nine justices.
Constitutional Law: Law that involves the interpretation and application of the U.S. Constitution.
"Judicial Branch" appears in:
Subjects (2)
Study guides (2)
Practice Questions (13)
What is the primary function of the judicial branch in U.S government?
Which check does Judicial Branch have over presidency according U.S Constitution?
What is one way the Judicial branch can check an action taken by the President?
Which two factors primarily contribute to the legitimacy of the Judicial Branch in the United States?
How does the practice of stare decisis in the judicial branch find a parallel in other branches of government?
What is a significant challenge that arises from the legitimacy of the Judicial Branch for future political leaders in the US?
How could potential court-packing by future administrations undermine the perceived legitimacy of the Judicial Branch?
What emerging issue could potentially affect the legitimacy of the Judicial Branch?
Which action can Congress take to check the power of the Judicial Branch?
How does the President exercise checks and balances over the Judicial branch?
What power does the Judicial Branch have over Congress?
Which of the following illustrates a check on the judicial branch by the executive branch?
What has contributed to the continued existence of checks and balances on the Judicial branch?
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