Explain - Why is the court case Marbury v Madison significant? How did it elevate the power of the Supreme Court
The Marbury v. Madison court case is considered significant because it established the principle of judicial review, thereby elevating the power of the Supreme Court. In 1803, the case arose when William Marbury, who had been appointed a justice of the peace in the District of Columbia by President John Adams, did not receive his commission before Thomas Jefferson took office. Marbury filed a petition with the Supreme Court, seeking a court order (writ of mandamus) to force Secretary of State James Madison to deliver his commission.
Chief Justice John Marshall, writing the decision for the Supreme Court, ruled that Marbury did have a right to his commission, as it had been properly signed and sealed. However, the Court held that it did not have the authority to issue the writ of mandamus because the Judiciary Act of 1789, which granted the Court this power, was unconstitutional. This decision was based on the understanding that the Constitution was the supreme law of the land, and any law inconsistent with it was void.
Furthermore, Marshall stated that it is the responsibility of the Supreme Court to interpret the Constitution and determine the constitutionality of laws. This introduced the concept of judicial review, which allows the Court to declare legislative acts or executive actions unconstitutional. By asserting this power, the Supreme Court became the final arbiter in interpreting the Constitution and ensuring the separation of powers between the branches of government.
The elevation of the Supreme Court's power through Marbury v. Madison is significant because it cemented the principle of judicial review and established the Court's authority to rule on the constitutionality of laws and actions. This decision solidified the role of the judiciary as a check on both the legislative and executive branches, ensuring the protection of individual rights and upholding the Constitution.