Final answer:
The judicial branch's powers, as defined by the U.S. Constitution, include interpreting laws, establishing judicial procedures, and sentencing offenders. These powers ensure the branch's role in maintaining justice and the balance of power within the federal government.
Step-by-step explanation:
The separation of powers is a foundational principle of the U.S. Constitution whereby the federal government is divided into three branches, each with its own distinct powers and responsibilities. The powers that are reserved for the judicial branch of the U.S. government are:
- c) Interpret laws
- d) Establish judicial procedures
- e) Sentence offenders
The judicial branch, comprising of U.S. district courts, appellate courts, and the Supreme Court, has the authority to interpret the Constitution, define the meaning of laws passed by the legislature, and the actions taken by the executive branch. They also establish their own procedures and sentence offenders upon a guilty verdict, maintaining the balance of power and ensuring justice under the law.