What is the power of courts to decide if a law follows the Constitution?

• A. Judicial Review
• B. Veto power
• C. Jurisdiction
• D. Arbitration

Answer: (A)

Judicial review is the power of courts to decide whether a law or government action complies with the Constitution. This authority lets the judiciary check legislation and executive actions, striking down those that violate constitutional provisions. The concept was firmly established in Marbury v. Madison, which held that courts can review acts of Congress and determine their constitutionality. Although the Constitution doesn’t say the words “judicial review” outright, the ruling created the mechanism by which the Supreme Court and lower courts interpret constitutional limits and ensure laws fit within the framework of the Constitution. The other terms refer to different powers: veto power belongs to the President to reject legislation; jurisdiction is the legal authority of a court to hear a case; arbitration is a private method of resolving disputes outside the court system. Judicial review best captures the idea that courts have the authority to assess the constitutional validity of laws.