Marbury v. Madison

Definition

Marbury v. Madison is a landmark Supreme Court case from 1803 that established the principle of judicial review in the United States, allowing the judiciary to invalidate laws and executive actions that are contrary to the Constitution. This case set a significant precedent for the role of the Supreme Court as a co-equal branch of government, reinforcing the importance of constitutional interpretation in American law.

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 had a right to his commission, the Court did not have the authority to issue a writ of mandamus under the Judiciary Act of 1789, which was found to be unconstitutional.
3. This ruling was significant because it marked the first time the Supreme Court struck down an act of Congress, asserting its authority to review and invalidate legislative acts.
4. Marbury v. Madison established the principle that the Constitution is the supreme law of the land, and it gave the judiciary a vital role in maintaining checks and balances among the branches of government.
5. The decision has had a lasting impact on American law and politics, cementing the judiciary's role as a key interpreter of constitutional law.

Review Questions

• How did Marbury v. Madison change the relationship between the judicial branch and other branches of government?
  • Marbury v. Madison fundamentally transformed the balance of power among the branches of government by establishing judicial review. This case empowered the judiciary to invalidate laws and executive actions that were inconsistent with the Constitution, thereby ensuring that no branch could exceed its authority without oversight. The Supreme Court's newfound role as a guardian of constitutional rights allowed it to act as a check on legislative and executive actions.
• Discuss how Marbury v. Madison has influenced subsequent Supreme Court decisions regarding judicial review.
  • Marbury v. Madison has served as a cornerstone for numerous Supreme Court decisions involving judicial review since its ruling. The precedent established in this case has been cited in various landmark decisions, reinforcing the idea that courts can nullify laws or actions that violate constitutional principles. This has led to pivotal rulings on civil rights, federal powers, and governmental accountability, shaping American legal and political landscapes through ongoing interpretations of the Constitution.
• Evaluate the broader implications of Marbury v. Madison for democratic governance and rule of law in contemporary society.
  • Marbury v. Madison has profound implications for democratic governance and rule of law today by ensuring that all government actions are subject to constitutional scrutiny. This case underpins the principle that no one is above the law, contributing to accountability and transparency in government. The establishment of judicial review empowers citizens to challenge unconstitutional actions, promoting active civic engagement and protecting individual rights, which are foundational elements in any democratic society.

Related terms

Judicial Review:

The power of courts to assess whether a law or executive action is in compliance with the Constitution.

Supreme Court:

The highest court in the United States, which has ultimate appellate jurisdiction over all federal and state court cases involving issues of federal law.

Constitutional Interpretation:

The process by which courts examine and apply constitutional provisions, often involving the analysis of legal texts, precedents, and broader principles.