The power of the Supreme Court to determine the constitutionality of legislative and executive actions is a fundamental principle of the U.S. legal system. This authority, while not explicitly stated in the Constitution, was established through the landmark case of Marbury v. Madison (1803). The Supreme Court asserted its right to invalidate laws or executive orders deemed incompatible with the Constitution, thereby acting as a check on the other branches of government.
This concept significantly impacts the balance of power within the government and shapes the interpretation of the Constitution over time. It provides a crucial mechanism for protecting individual rights and liberties against potential government overreach. Its application throughout history has addressed critical issues such as civil rights, states’ rights, and the limits of federal power. The effects of this process has made the US government what it is today.