Marbury v. Madison

In ruling on this issue, Chief Justice John Marshall established two key points: firstly that Marbury should have received his commission; and secondly, that it was within the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court to review acts passed by Congress if they conflict with laws outlined in Constitution. This ruling ultimately gave rise to judicial review as we know it today – setting a precedent whereby future challenges could be mounted against any law deemed unconstitutional or otherwise contrary to higher laws within U.S Constitution.

Sample Solution

Marbury v Madison is a landmark Supreme Court case of 1803, in which the court set forth the doctrine of judicial review – the power to declare laws unconstitutional, and therefore null and void. The case arose from a dispute between William Marbury and James Madison over an appointment made by former president John Adams just before he left office. Marbury had been appointed Justice of the Peace for Washington D.C., but when President Thomas Jefferson took office he refused to deliver his commission, leaving Marbury without legal recourse.