What is one way the judicial branch checks the power of the legislative branch?

The primary mechanism through which the judicial branch checks the power of the legislative branch is by declaring laws unconstitutional. This process is integral to maintaining the balance of power within the U.S. government, as outlined by the principle of judicial review established in the landmark case of Marbury v. Madison.

When the judiciary interprets the Constitution, it has the authority to assess the legality of laws passed by the legislative branch. If a law is found to violate constitutional principles or rights, the courts can invalidate it, effectively preventing the legislative branch from overstepping its bounds. This judicial power serves as a crucial safeguard against potential abuses of power and ensures that all laws align with the Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land.

Other choices suggest actions that do not accurately represent the role of the judiciary in relation to legislative authority. For instance, vetoing laws relates to executive powers rather than judicial functions, while amending the Constitution involves a different process that requires the participation of both legislative branches. Passing new laws also falls squarely within the purview of the legislative branch, not the judicial branch. Thus, the ability to declare laws unconstitutional is the most direct way the judiciary acts as a check on legislative power.