Lesson #13: Separation of Powers

separation of powers

• To divide the functions of 1 level of government into 3 separate & equal branches

  • Divides 1 level into 3 areas (Horizontal)

  • Found at both the National & State government levels

make laws

What does the Legislative branch do?

enforces laws

What does the Executive Branch do?

interprets laws

What does the Judicial Branch do?

checks and balances

Power that one branch has over the other 2 branches to keep them balanced & equal

• CREATES LOWER COURTS

• MAY REMOVE JUDGES THROUGH IMPEACHMENT AND TRIAL

• SENATE APPROVES OR REJECTS JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS

What checks does the Legislative Branch have over the Judicial Branch?

• MAKES LAWS, CREATES AGENCIES AND PROGRAMS

• APPROPRIATES FUNDS TO CARRY OUT LAWS AND PROGRAMS

• MAY OVERRIDE VETO WITH 2/3 MAJORITY VOTE OF BOTH HOUSES OF CONGRESS

• MAY REMOVE THE PRESIDENT THROUGH IMPEACHMENT AND TRIAL 

• SENATE RATIFIES TREATIES BY 2/3 MAJORITY VOTE

• SENATE CONFIRMS PRESIDENTIAL APPOINTMENTS

What checks does the Legislative Branch have over the Executive Branch?

• APPOINTS SUPREME COURT JUSTICES AND OTHER FEDERAL JUDGES

• CAN ISSUE PARDONS TO FORGIVE CRIMES

What checks does the Executive Branch have over the Judicial Branch?

• MAY VETO LEGISLATION

• MAY CALL SPECIAL SESSIONS

• MAY RECOMMEND LEGISLATION

• MAY APPEAL TO THE PEOPLE

What checks does the Executive Branch have over the Legislative Branch?

• CAN DECLARE LAWS PASSED BY CONGRESS UNCONSTITUTIONAL

What checks does the Judicial Branch have over the Legislative Branch?

• JUDGES SERVE FOR LIFE

• SUPREME COURT CAN DECLARE PRESIDENTIAL ACTIONS UNCONSTITUTIONAL

What checks does the Judicial Branch have over the Executive Branch?