Final answer:
The Supreme Court checks the Legislative Branch through judicial review, which can invalidate unconstitutional legislation. Congress can respond to Supreme Court rulings by passing new legislation or proposing constitutional amendments. The Legislative and Executive Branches also check the Judiciary through appointment powers and the ability to alter its structure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Supreme Court serves as a critical check on the Legislative Branch through its power of judicial review, which allows the Court to invalidate legislation that it determines to be unconstitutional. This is a cornerstone of the system of checks and balances designed by the framers of the Constitution. When laws are challenged in court, they may eventually reach the Supreme Court, which can uphold or overturn them based on constitutional grounds. It's important to note that the Court does not proactively seek out laws to overturn; it can only rule on cases that come before it through the judicial process.
Moreover, there are ways that Congress can respond to a Supreme Court ruling it disagrees with. For instance, Congress may choose to pass new legislation that aligns with the Court's interpretation of the Constitution, amend the law as per the Court's decision, or even propose a constitutional amendment. Such interactions demonstrate the dynamic relationship and continuous balancing between these two branches of government.
Finally, while the Supreme Court holds substantial influence in interpreting the law, both the executive and legislative branches have means to check its power. The President nominates justices to the Supreme Court, who must be confirmed by the Senate, and Congress has the authority to change the court’s jurisdiction or the size of the Court itself, reflecting a mutual system of checks and balances.