Final answer:
The judiciary, including the Supreme Court, plays a crucial role in the legal system and has the power of judicial review to review and potentially invalidate laws and actions that are deemed unconstitutional.
Step-by-step explanation:
Role of the Judiciary and Judicial Review
The judiciary, including the Supreme Court and lower courts, plays a crucial role in the legal system. Their primary responsibility is to interpret and apply the law to ensure justice and protect constitutional rights. One important power of the judiciary is judicial review, which allows them to review and potentially invalidate laws and actions that are deemed unconstitutional. Judicial review is a key mechanism for maintaining the balance of power between the three branches of government and protecting the rights of individuals.
Status of Judicial Review
Judicial review is a power held by both federal and state courts at all levels. It involves evaluating whether a law or action is in agreement with the Constitution and its intent. The Supreme Court of the United States has the ultimate authority to interpret the Constitution and make final decisions on the constitutionality of laws. The power of judicial review was established in the landmark case of Marbury v. Madison in 1803. Since then, judicial review has become an integral part of the judicial branch's ability to check and balance the other branches of government.