The judicial branch is the part of government responsible for interpreting laws, applying them to specific cases, and determining whether laws violate the Constitution, which is the highest law in the United States
. It consists of a system of courts, with the U.S. Supreme Court as the highest court, composed of nine justices nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate
. The judicial branch's main functions include:
- Deciding the meaning of laws and how they apply in real situations
- Evaluating the constitutionality of laws and government actions
- Resolving disputes peacefully through the court system
- Exercising judicial review, which allows courts to annul laws or government actions that conflict with the Constitution
The federal judiciary includes the Supreme Court, 13 appellate courts (courts of appeals), and district courts that handle most federal cases
. Judges in the judicial branch interpret laws rather than create or enforce them, distinguishing their role from the legislative and executive branches
. This branch operates within a system of checks and balances, ensuring no single branch of government gains too much power. For example, while the President nominates justices, the Senate confirms them, and the courts can overturn unconstitutional laws passed by Congress
. In summary, the judicial branch is the court system that interprets laws, ensures they comply with the Constitution, and resolves legal disputes, playing a crucial role in maintaining the rule of law in the United States
