Understanding the Federal Courts

Abstract

The federal courts often are called theguardians of the Constitution becausetheir rulings protect rights and libertiesguaranteed by the Constitution. Throughfair and impartial judgments, the federalcourts interpret and apply the law toresolve disputes. The courts do not makethe laws. That is the responsibility ofCongress. Nor do the courts have thepower to enforce the laws. That is the roleof the President and the many executivebranch departments and agencies.