Judiciary Branch of the United States Government
The Judiciary branch of the United States government is one of the three branches established by the United States Constitution. It plays a critical role in interpreting the law, adjudicating disputes, and ensuring justice is served through the court system.
Establishment and Structure
- The Judiciary was formally established by Article III of the United States Constitution, which outlines its powers and independence from the other branches.
- The structure includes:
- United States Supreme Court: The highest court in the land, with nine Justices including one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. It has appellate jurisdiction over all federal cases and original jurisdiction in a limited number of cases, primarily those involving ambassadors, public ministers, consuls, and cases in which a state is a party.
- United States Courts of Appeals: There are 13 appellate courts, which review decisions from the district courts within their circuits.
- United States District Courts: The trial courts of the federal system, where most federal cases begin. There are 94 judicial districts, including at least one district court for each state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.
- Special courts like the United States Court of International Trade and the United States Tax Court handle specific types of cases.
Role and Functions
- Judicial Review: The power to review and potentially nullify laws or executive actions that are found to violate the Constitution, established by the landmark case Marbury v. Madison (1803).
- Interpreting the Law: Courts interpret federal laws, treaties, and the Constitution, ensuring consistent application and protection of rights.
- Adjudication: Resolving disputes between parties, whether they are civil or criminal in nature.
- Checks and Balances: The Judiciary serves as a check on the legislative and executive branches through judicial review and by ruling on the constitutionality of their actions.
History and Key Events
- Formation: The Judiciary Act of 1789 set up the initial framework for the federal court system.
- Marbury v. Madison: This case established the principle of judicial review, significantly empowering the Judiciary.
- Expansion and Reform: Over the years, Congress has altered the structure and jurisdiction of the federal courts, notably through acts like the Judiciary Act of 1801, the Evarts Act of 1891, and the Judicial Code of 1911.
- Notable Cases: Decisions like Brown v. Board of Education (1954) and Roe v. Wade (1973) have had profound impacts on American society and law.
Independence
The Judiciary's independence is secured through:
- Lifetime appointments for federal judges, barring impeachment.
- Salaries that cannot be diminished during their continuance in office.
- Separation from the other branches, ensuring they do not interfere with judicial proceedings or decisions.
Sources
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