Judiciary Act of 1789

Definition

The Judiciary Act of 1789 was an act passed by the first U.S. Congress that created the federal judiciary system, including the Supreme Court and lower federal courts.

Related terms

Marbury v. Madison (1803): This landmark case established the principle of judicial review in the United States, meaning American courts have the power to strike down laws deemed unconstitutional.

Article III Courts: These are courts set up by Congress under Article III of the Constitution; they include District Courts, Circuit Courts, and Supreme Court.

Federalism: This is a system where power is divided between national and state governments.