Marbury v. Madison

Definition

Marbury v. Madison was a landmark Supreme Court case decided in 1803 that established the principle of judicial review in the United States. This case arose when William Marbury petitioned the Court for a writ of mandamus to compel Secretary of State James Madison to deliver his commission as a justice of the peace. The ruling determined that the Court had the authority to review acts of Congress and invalidate those that were found unconstitutional, solidifying the judiciary's role as a co-equal branch of government.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Marbury v. Madison was initiated by William Marbury, who was appointed by President John Adams but did not receive his commission before Adams left office.
2. Chief Justice John Marshall wrote the opinion for the Court, which declared that part of the Judiciary Act of 1789 was unconstitutional, asserting judicial authority.
3. The decision firmly established the principle that the Supreme Court could declare laws passed by Congress unconstitutional, thus enhancing its power.
4. This case set a precedent for future cases, reinforcing the idea that the judiciary is an independent and equal branch of government.
5. Marbury v. Madison played a crucial role in defining the balance of power among the branches of government, which remains a cornerstone of American democracy.

Review Questions

• How did Marbury v. Madison impact the relationship between the judicial branch and other branches of government?
  • Marbury v. Madison significantly impacted the relationship between the judicial branch and other branches by establishing judicial review, allowing courts to invalidate laws that conflict with the Constitution. This empowered the judiciary to serve as a check on both legislative and executive actions, ensuring that no branch exceeds its constitutional authority. Consequently, it reinforced the judiciary as an independent and co-equal branch within the framework of American government.
• What specific legal principles were established in Marbury v. Madison, and how do they continue to influence American law today?
  • Marbury v. Madison established the principle of judicial review, which allows courts to assess the constitutionality of legislative acts. This legal principle has continued to influence American law by providing a mechanism for protecting individual rights and maintaining checks and balances among government branches. The case laid foundational precedents that guide judicial interpretation and enforcement of constitutional principles in subsequent legal cases.
• Evaluate the broader implications of Marbury v. Madison on American democracy and its foundational principles.
  • The broader implications of Marbury v. Madison on American democracy are profound, as it reinforced the importance of separation of powers and checks and balances within government. By empowering courts to invalidate unconstitutional laws, it ensured that legislative and executive actions remain subject to judicial oversight, thereby protecting citizens' rights against potential government overreach. This case solidified judicial independence as a fundamental aspect of democracy, promoting a legal framework where constitutional governance prevails over arbitrary authority.

Related terms

Judicial Review: The power of courts to examine the actions of legislative and executive branches and determine whether such actions are consistent with the Constitution.

Supreme Court: The highest court in the United States, which has the ultimate authority in interpreting the Constitution and federal law.

Writ of Mandamus: A court order compelling a government official to perform an act that is required by law.