An important feature of the U. S. Constitution is its provision for a system of checks and balances. Explain the purpose and structure of the system of checks and balances and give an example of how it works.

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Jonas Burnett

6 September, 12:24

An important feature of the U. S. Constitution is its provision for a system of checks and balances. Explain the purpose and structure of the system of checks and balances and give an example of how it works.

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Beau Barrett · Answer 1

The system of Checks and Balances is the system whereby all three branches of the government (the Judicial, the Executive and the Legislative) can respond to the action of the other and oversee, check and limit the other. Its purpose is to prevent any branch from becoming too powerful, avoid tyranny, and ensure that the power is balanced.

Here is an example of how this system works in the U. S.:

The Judicial branch, whose main power is to evaluate laws, checks the other branches through their "Judicial Review" power which enables it to review and determine the unconstitutionality of laws made by the Legislative branch and acts of the executive. At the same time, the Judicial branch is also checked by the other branches: the President is the one responsible for nominating the Justices of the Supreme Court, and the Legislative is responsible for confirming or rejecting those nominees.