What significant judicial principle was established by Chief Justice John Marshall?

What significant judicial principle was established by Chief Justice John Marshall?

• A. Equal protection under the law
• B. Judicial review
• C. Citizen's right to vote
• D. Separation of powers

Answer: (B)

The principle of judicial review established by Chief Justice John Marshall is a cornerstone of the American legal system. This principle allows the Supreme Court to evaluate laws and actions taken by Congress and the executive branch to determine their constitutionality. The landmark case Marbury v. Madison in 1803 definitively cemented this practice, enabling the judiciary to ensure that no law or policy contravenes the Constitution, thereby safeguarding the rule of law and maintaining the checks and balances between the branches of government. This principle also reinforces the role of the Supreme Court as the ultimate arbiter of constitutional interpretation, shaping the nature of American governance. Judicial review has had a profound impact on American law and society, ensuring that individual rights and liberties are protected from potential overreach by the government.

The principle of judicial review established by Chief Justice John Marshall is a cornerstone of the American legal system. This principle allows the Supreme Court to evaluate laws and actions taken by Congress and the executive branch to determine their constitutionality. The landmark case Marbury v. Madison in 1803 definitively cemented this practice, enabling the judiciary to ensure that no law or policy contravenes the Constitution, thereby safeguarding the rule of law and maintaining the checks and balances between the branches of government.

This principle also reinforces the role of the Supreme Court as the ultimate arbiter of constitutional interpretation, shaping the nature of American governance. Judicial review has had a profound impact on American law and society, ensuring that individual rights and liberties are protected from potential overreach by the government.