why does the supreme court get to decide whats constitutional, people can ead the constitution by themself . why do they need a court to decide
The Supreme Court of the United States plays a crucial role in interpreting and determining the constitutionality of laws and government actions. Here are a few reasons why the Court has the authority to decide constitutional matters:
1. Complexity of constitutional interpretation: The Constitution outlines broad principles, but it does not cover every specific situation or provide clear-cut answers to all legal questions. The Court is responsible for examining these constitutional principles within the context of real-world scenarios. This requires a deep understanding of legal precedent, historical context, societal developments, and the interplay between different constitutional provisions.
2. Separation of powers: The Supreme Court acts as a check against both the legislative and executive branches by ensuring that their actions align with the Constitution. The Court's independence allows it to provide an impartial and unbiased assessment of constitutional matters, which may not be possible if individuals or other branches of government were solely responsible.
3. Resolving disagreements and setting precedents: Different individuals and groups can have conflicting interpretations of the Constitution. When these disputes arise, it is necessary to have a central authority to provide consistent and authoritative decisions. The Supreme Court's decisions establish legal precedents that guide lower courts and the country as a whole.
4. Judicial review: The concept of judicial review, while not explicitly outlined in the Constitution, was established by the Court in the landmark case Marbury v. Madison (1803). It grants the Court the power to assess the constitutionality of laws and government actions, ensuring that they do not exceed the limits set by the Constitution.
While individuals can read and interpret the Constitution on their own, the Court's decisions carry significant weight as they provide an authoritative, final say on constitutional issues, promote consistency across the legal system, and guide the development of constitutional jurisprudence over time.