Intro to Paralegal Studies Practice

What landmark case involved Marbury suing President Madison?

1. Brown v. Board of Education

2. Marbury v. Madison

3. Roe v. Wade

4. Plessy v. Ferguson

The correct answer is: Marbury v. Madison

The case that involved Marbury suing President Madison is significant because it established the principle of judicial review, which allows the Supreme Court to declare an act of Congress or the executive branch unconstitutional. In "Marbury v. Madison," decided in 1803, William Marbury petitioned the Supreme Court for a writ of mandamus to compel Secretary of State James Madison to deliver his commission as a justice of the peace. Chief Justice John Marshall's ruling emphasized the role of the judiciary as a co-equal branch of government. He asserted that it was within the Court's power to review acts of Congress and determine whether they were in alignment with the Constitution. The case firmly established the judiciary's authority and reinforced the checks and balances that are foundational to the American legal system. Other cases listed do not pertain to Marbury and Madison. "Brown v. Board of Education" addressed racial segregation in schools, "Roe v. Wade" dealt with a woman's right to choose regarding abortion, and "Plessy v. Ferguson" upheld the constitutionality of racial segregation under the "separate but equal" doctrine. None of these cases involve the specific legal principles relevant to the confrontation between Marbury and Madison.