Marbury v. Madison

Definition

Marbury v. Madison is a landmark U.S. Supreme Court case decided in 1803 that established the principle of judicial review, allowing the Supreme Court to declare an act of Congress unconstitutional. This case set a precedent for the power of the judiciary and reinforced the system of checks and balances among the branches of government, underscoring the role of the judiciary in interpreting laws and protecting constitutional rights.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The case arose when William Marbury petitioned the Supreme Court for a writ of mandamus to compel Secretary of State James Madison to deliver his commission as a justice of the peace.
2. Chief Justice John Marshall ruled that while Marbury was entitled to his commission, the court did not have jurisdiction to issue a writ of mandamus due to a conflict with the Constitution.
3. This ruling effectively nullified Section 13 of the Judiciary Act of 1789, which attempted to expand the Supreme Court's original jurisdiction.
4. Marbury v. Madison marked the first time the Supreme Court declared an act of Congress unconstitutional, establishing a key function of the judiciary.
5. The decision significantly strengthened the role of the Supreme Court as a co-equal branch of government, solidifying its authority in interpreting laws.

Review Questions

• How did Marbury v. Madison change the relationship between the judicial branch and other branches of government?
  • Marbury v. Madison fundamentally altered the balance of power between branches by establishing judicial review, which allows courts to invalidate laws that conflict with the Constitution. This case empowered the judiciary as a co-equal branch alongside the executive and legislative branches, ensuring that it could serve as a check on their powers. The decision highlighted that not only could laws be enacted, but they must also align with constitutional principles.
• Discuss how Marbury v. Madison set a precedent for future Supreme Court cases concerning judicial review.
  • Marbury v. Madison established a vital precedent by affirming that the Supreme Court has the authority to review and potentially reject legislative acts if deemed unconstitutional. This principle has been invoked in numerous landmark cases since then, reinforcing its significance in American jurisprudence. The ruling laid a foundation for the judiciary's role in maintaining constitutional integrity and ensuring that no law or government action surpasses constitutional boundaries.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of Marbury v. Madison on American law and governance.
  • The long-term implications of Marbury v. Madison are profound, as it cemented judicial review as a cornerstone of American law and governance. This case has not only shaped how courts interpret laws but has also allowed them to play an essential role in protecting individual rights against potential overreach by other branches of government. As a result, it has contributed to a more balanced system where no branch can exercise unchecked power, ultimately reinforcing democracy and accountability within American governance.

Related terms

Judicial Review:

The power of the courts to examine and invalidate actions by the legislative and executive branches if they are found to be unconstitutional.

Checks and Balances:

A system in which the powers of government are divided among different branches to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power.

Constitutionality: The quality or state of being in accordance with the U.S. Constitution, often assessed by courts during legal challenges.