judicial branch

[ joo-dish-uhl branch ]

noun

1. the branch of government charged with the interpretation of laws and the administration of justice; the judiciary.

judicial branch

1. The court systems of local, state, and federal governments, responsible for interpreting the laws passed by the legislative branch and enforced by the executive branch . These courts try criminal cases (in which a law may have been violated) or civil cases (disputes between parties over rights or responsibilities). The courts attempt to resolve conflicts impartially in order to protect the individual rights guaranteed by the Constitution , within the bounds of justice, as defined by the entire body of U.S. law. Some courts try only original cases, whereas others act as courts of appeals . The ultimate court of appeals is the Supreme Court . On the federal level, the system of checks and balances empowers Congress to create federal courts, and all federal judges must be appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate . The courts may exercise the powers of judicial review and injunction .

Word History and Origins

Origin of judicial branch¹

First recorded in 1780–90

Example Sentences

Crucially for the present moment, they also did not “foresee that members of Congress and perhaps members of the judicial branch, too, would refuse to check the power of a president from their own party.”

From Salon

As for the judicial branch, we don't know for sure what the Supreme Court would do with cases aimed at stopping Trump's appalling agenda from coming to fruition.

From Salon

Outside of the shuttered headquarters of the federal judicial branch in the nation’s capital, they have gathered daily, waving Mexican flags and signs that read: “The judiciary is an honest power.”

From Los Angeles Times

Some legal scholars say that politics has always been part of the judicial branch, and that increased attention raises awareness of the crucial role judges play in government.

From Los Angeles Times

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo welcomed the decision, saying the government appreciates “the wise ruling by the judicial branch.”

From Seattle Times