What is judicial review and how does it affect constitutional law?
Judicial review is the power of a court to review a law or executive action and determine whether it is constitutional or not. In the United States, this power is held by the Supreme Court and applies only to laws passed by the federal government. In Washington, judicial review is especially important for constitutional law, as it is the only way for citizens to challenge the constitutionality of laws. This is because, in most states, the legislature controls the power to make laws. Judicial review allows citizens to make sure their rights are protected by the Constitution. When a law is challenged in court, the Supreme Court will evaluate it and decide whether it is constitutional or not. If the court finds that the law is unconstitutional, then it must be struck down. This prevents the government from trampling on citizens’ rights, as the court is acting as a check on the legislature. The power of judicial review ultimately serves to protect citizens’ rights as well as uphold the Constitution. By being the ultimate arbiter of what is and what isn’t constitutional, the Supreme Court is able to make sure that laws passed by the government are in line with the rights of citizens.
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