What are the functions of the judiciary in the U.S. government?

1. Interpreting the law: The judiciary is responsible for interpreting and applying the law in cases brought before the courts. This includes determining the constitutionality of laws and ensuring that they are applied fairly and consistently.

2. Adjudicating disputes: The judiciary resolves disputes between individuals, organizations, and government entities. This includes civil cases involving contract disputes, personal injury claims, and property disputes, as well as criminal cases involving violations of the law.

3. Protecting individual rights: The judiciary plays a crucial role in protecting individual rights and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution. This includes ensuring due process, protecting against discrimination, and upholding the right to free speech, religion, and privacy.

4. Checking the power of the other branches: The judiciary serves as a check on the power of the executive and legislative branches of government. It can declare laws or actions of the government unconstitutional and prevent overreach by the other branches.

5. Setting legal precedents: Through its decisions, the judiciary establishes legal precedents that guide future cases and shape the interpretation and application of the law. These precedents help ensure consistency and predictability in the legal system.

6. Upholding the rule of law: The judiciary plays a critical role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly and equally under the law. It helps maintain order and stability in society by resolving disputes and enforcing legal rights and obligations.

Functions of the Judiciary in the U.S. Government:

1. Interpretation of the Law:
- Decides the meaning and application of laws passed by the legislative branch.
- Ensures that laws conform to the Constitution.

2. Dispute Resolution:
- Adjudicates disputes between individuals, businesses, and the government.
- Determines the facts and applies the law to resolve conflicts.

3. Protection of Individual Rights:
- Upholds the rights guaranteed by the Constitution, including free speech, due process, and equal protection.
- Prevents government overreach and protects citizens from unlawful actions.

4. Judicial Review:
- Has the power to declare laws or government actions unconstitutional, ensuring that they adhere to the Constitution.
- Acts as a check on the other branches of government.

5. Interpretation of the Constitution:
- Determines the meaning and intent of the Constitution in specific cases.
- Shapes the overall interpretation and application of the Constitution.

6. Appointment and Confirmation:
- Participates in the appointment and confirmation of federal judges and other government officials.
- Ensures the independence and competence of the judiciary.

7. Stare Decisis:
- Follows the principle of precedent, where decisions in similar past cases guide current rulings.
- Promotes fairness and predictability in the legal system.

8. Case Management:
- Manages the flow of cases through the court system.
- Sets rules and procedures for legal proceedings.

9. Supervision of Lower Courts:
- Reviews and oversees the decisions of lower courts.
- Ensures that legal principles are applied consistently across the judiciary.

10. Sentencing:
- Determines appropriate punishments for crimes committed.
- Considers mitigating and aggravating factors to ensure fair and just sentences.