What major impact did the Supreme Court have on American law?

The Supreme Court has had a profound impact on American law, and one of its most significant contributions is the establishment of judicial review. This principle allows the Court to determine the constitutionality of legislative acts and executive actions. The landmark case Marbury v. Madison in 1803 established this crucial precedent, asserting that it is the duty of the judiciary to say what the law is. Judicial review empowers the Supreme Court to invalidate laws that are found to violate the Constitution, thereby ensuring that no law or governmental action is above the Constitution.

This capability has facilitated a system of checks and balances among the branches of government, reinforcing the rule of law and protecting individual rights. It also allows the Supreme Court to play a key role in shaping various aspects of law, including civil rights, federalism, and the balance of governmental power. The establishment of judicial review has led to numerous landmark rulings that have influenced American society and governance over the centuries, solidifying its importance in the legal landscape of the United States.