Lesson 6: Key Cases: Marbury v. Madison
As part of Judicial Review, Marbury v. Madison is a landmark case that established the principle of judicial review in the United States, meaning that courts have the power to strike down laws, statutes, and executive actions that contravene the U.S. Constitution.
Background
Marbury v. Madison, decided in 1803, was a pivotal case in U.S. constitutional law. The case was brought by William Marbury, who had been appointed as a Justice of the Peace in the District of Columbia by President John Adams, but whose commission was not delivered by the new Secretary of State, James Madison.
Case Details 📜
The case was brought before the Supreme Court under Chief Justice John Marshall. The key questions considered were:
- Did Marbury have a right to his commission?
- Was there a legal remedy available to him?
- Could the Supreme Court issue the remedy?
Decision ⚖️
In a historic decision, the Supreme Court held:
- Marbury indeed had a right to his commission.
- A legal remedy was available to him.
- However, the Supreme Court could not issue the remedy (a writ of mandamus) because the section of the Judiciary Act of 1789 that gave the Court the power to issue such writs was itself unconstitutional.
Significance
This decision established the principle of judicial review, allowing the judiciary to provide checks and balances on the other branches of government. Think of it as the ultimate legal referee, making sure everyone plays by the rules!
The Supreme Court invalidates a law that infringes upon the Constitution.
Diagram of Judicial Review 🖼️
Further Reading
To understand the broader implications and history of judicial review, consider reading "The Federalist Papers" and "The Oxford Handbook of the U.S. Constitution".