Checks

Definition

Checks refer to the mechanisms in place to limit and balance the power of the government branches. They ensure that no single branch becomes too powerful by allowing each branch to check and balance the actions of the others.

Related terms

Separation of Powers: This term refers to dividing governmental power among three branches - legislative, executive, and judicial - to prevent any one branch from becoming too dominant.

Federalism: Federalism is a system where power is shared between a central government and state governments. It helps maintain checks on governmental power by distributing authority between different levels.

Judicial Review: Judicial review is the ability of courts, especially the Supreme Court, to interpret laws and determine if they are constitutional or not. It acts as a check on legislation passed by Congress.