Which branch is responsible for determining the constitutionality of laws?

The judicial branch is responsible for determining the constitutionality of laws. This power is rooted in the principle of judicial review, which allows courts to examine and invalidate legislation or executive actions that are found to be inconsistent with the Constitution. This function is crucial for maintaining the rule of law and ensuring that the rights of individuals are protected against potential governmental overreach.

In the United States, the Supreme Court and lower courts play a pivotal role in this process, interpreting the Constitution and applying its principles to concrete cases. By reviewing laws and executive actions, the judicial branch serves as a check on the powers of the legislative and executive branches, contributing to the system of checks and balances that is fundamental to the American political system.

The legislative branch, while responsible for creating laws, does not have the authority to assess their constitutionality. The executive branch is tasked with enforcing laws, and the administrative branch typically refers to the various agencies that execute government functions, but these do not possess the judicial power to interpret constitutional matters.