define judicial review

Judicial review is a legal process in which a court examines the lawfulness of a decision, action, or failure to act by a public body or government authority. The court reviews whether the decision was made in accordance with the law and proper procedures, rather than judging the correctness of the decision itself. If the decision is found unlawful, it can be nullified or quashed, requiring the public body to reconsider it lawfully. This process ensures that public authorities act within their powers and follow fair procedures, and it allows courts to declare government actions unconstitutional or unlawful if they violate legal or constitutional requirements. Judicial review is fundamental in upholding the rule of law and government accountability.