Constitution Week Spotlight

Sept. 22

On day six of Constitution Week, we focus on the judicial system.

The judicial system in the United States is deeply rooted in the Constitution. Article III of the Constitution created the Supreme Court, the nation’s highest court, and authorized Congress to establish lower federal courts as needed. The judiciary’s primary role is to interpret and apply the law, ensuring that legislation and executive actions conform to the Constitution. This system provides a critical check on the other branches of government, helping maintain the balance of power that is central to the American system.

One of the most important functions of the judicial system is judicial review — the power of courts to determine whether laws or government actions violate the Constitution. Judicial review allows the courts to strike down laws or policies that conflict with constitutional principles, reinforcing the Constitution as the supreme law of the land.

The federal judiciary operates alongside state court systems, creating a dual court structure that reflects the principle of federalism. Federal courts hear cases involving constitutional issues, federal laws and disputes between states, while state courts handle matters under state law. The lifetime appointments of federal judges, including Supreme Court justices, are intended to insulate them from political pressures, allowing them to make impartial decisions based solely on the law and the Constitution. Through this system, the judiciary plays a central role in protecting individual rights, resolving conflicts and upholding the rule of law — ensuring that the principles of the Constitution guide the functioning of American government.

Today’s quiz

What power allows the courts to determine if a law or government action violates the Constitution?

a) Habeas corpus b) Judicial review c) Checks and balances d) Separation of powers
Answer: b) Judicial review

Which landmark Supreme Court case established the principle of judicial review?

a) Brown v. Board of Education (1954) b) McCulloch v. Maryland (1819) c) Marbury v. Madison (1803) d) Plessy v. Ferguson (1896)
Answer: c) Marbury v. Madison (1803)

This Constitution Week Spotlight was provided by the Lt. George Farragut Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.

Info: lgfdar.com