Final answer:
An independent and impartial judiciary is crucial for a democratic system as it ensures the fair application of laws, protects individual and minority rights, and maintains checks and balances within the government. The judiciary's power of judicial review is key to its role as the protector of the Constitution and the rights of the people.
Step-by-step explanation:
An independent and impartial judiciary is indeed the backbone of a democratic system because it ensures that the laws are interpreted and applied without any undue influence from the other branches of government. Such a judiciary has the power of judicial review, which allows the courts to strike down laws and government actions they deem unconstitutional. This serves to protect the rights of individuals and minority groups, especially when the legislative or executive may not represent their interests .For example, through their interpretations of the law, judges do more than apply existing statutes; they also shape the law. This was clearly shown when the US Supreme Court expanded rights for same-sex couples, granting them the right to marry nationwide in 2015. The judiciary's responsibility to establish justice is a fundamental aspect of the rule of law, ensuring that legal processes are accessible, fair, and efficient, with justice delivered timely by competent and unbiased judges who reflect the communities they serve .Additionally, the lack of power to enforce its rulings means that the judiciary relies on the executive to carry out its decisions and on the legislature for funding. This enforces a system of checks and balances with the legislative and executive branches, but also reinforces the judiciary's position as the interpreter of the Constitution and protector of individual rights within a balanced democratic framework.