What does the judicial branch do?
Reviews laws
The judicial branch includes the Supreme Court and other federal courts. They look at laws and decide whether those laws follow the U.S. Constitution. If a law conflicts with the Constitution, the courts can strike it down.
Explains laws
The judicial branch is made up of courts, including the Supreme Court. Judges look at how laws apply to real cases and explain what the law means when people disagree about it. This helps make sure laws are understood and used fairly.
Resolves disputes (disagreements) about the law
Courts in the judicial branch hear cases when people or the government disagree about what the law means or whether it was followed. Judges apply the Constitution and laws to the facts and make decisions to settle the conflict. This helps ensure laws are enforced fairly and consistently.
Decides if a law goes against the (U.S.) Constitution
The judicial branch is made up of courts, including the Supreme Court. When there is a dispute about a law, judges interpret the Constitution and can decide that the law is unconstitutional, which means it cannot be enforced.