Understanding Judicial Review

Judicial review is the process by which courts evaluate government actions, ensuring they align with the Constitution. This concept traditionally involved examining acts of Congress to assess their constitutionality, but it has evolved to include reviewing executive branch actions, especially those taken by administrative agencies. Over time, the federal courts have become increasingly involved in overseeing the regulatory work of these agencies, which has led to significant judicial involvement in government operations. The transformation of judicial review over the past century reflects a growing recognition of the courts' role in maintaining checks and balances within the U.S. government.