Massive Government Practice Test

The case that established the principle of judicial review is Marbury v. Madison. This landmark decision, made by the Supreme Court in 1803, asserted the power of the courts to review the actions of the legislative and executive branches and determine their constitutionality. The decision affirmed that it is the duty of the judiciary to interpret the law and ensure that no law is enacted that violates the Constitution.

Chief Justice John Marshall declared that it was the responsibility of the Supreme Court to ensure that the law is applied consistently with the Constitution, thereby providing a mechanism for the judicial branch to check the powers of the other branches of government. This case set a critical precedent for the role of the Supreme Court in maintaining the rule of law and protecting individual rights by ensuring that acts of Congress or the executive branch do not exceed constitutional limits. As a result, Marbury v. Madison is foundational to the framework of American government and the practice of judicial review that remains in effect today.