What is the term for the power of the judiciary to check the other branches of government?

• A. Constitutional authority
• B. Judicial review
• C. Executive oversight
• D. Legislative approval

Answer: (B)

Judicial review is the term that refers to the power of the judiciary to evaluate the actions of the legislative and executive branches of government. This allows the courts to determine whether laws or executive actions are consistent with the Constitution. Through judicial review, the judiciary can declare laws or actions unconstitutional, thereby checking the other branches of government and upholding the rule of law. This essential function ensures that no branch exceeds its authority or infringes on individual rights guaranteed by the Constitution.

In contrast, constitutional authority generally refers to the powers granted to different branches of government by the Constitution, but it does not specifically address the judiciary's role in checking other branches. Executive oversight typically pertains to the powers of the executive branch over other areas of government, while legislative approval focuses on the authority of the legislative branch to pass laws and conduct oversight, neither of which encapsulates the judiciary's unique ability to review and invalidate actions of the other branches.