What is the significance of Marbury v. Madison?

The importance of Marbury v. Madison lies in its establishment of the principle of judicial review, which allows the judiciary to overrule laws and actions that are found to be inconsistent with the Constitution. This landmark case, decided in 1803, set a precedent ensuring that the Supreme Court and other courts have the authority to examine legislative and executive acts and determine their constitutionality.

Judicial review is a critical component of the American legal system, as it empowers the courts to protect individual rights and maintain the rule of law by checking the powers of the other branches of government. By asserting this power, Marbury v. Madison reinforced the notion that the Constitution is the supreme law of the land, thus ensuring that all governmental actions align with constitutional principles. This decision has had a lasting impact on the role of the judiciary in the United States, solidifying its position as a co-equal branch of government with the ability to interpret the law and check the other branches’ powers.