Important Cases

Marbury v. Madison (1803) - Precedent

This landmark case established the principle of judicial review, giving the Supreme Court the power to declare laws or actions by Congress or the President unconstitutional. This case set the foundation for the judiciary's role as a check on the legislative and executive branches.

Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) - Precedent, 58 Years

This case upheld the constitutionality of racial segregation under the "separate but equal" doctrine. While it did not directly establish judicial review, the decision demonstrated the Court’s interpretation of the Constitution and its ability to set precedents that shaped societal norms.

Brown v. Board of Education (1954) - Judicial Review (Overturns Plessy v. Ferguson) (Unanimous S. Court Decision) (All deliberate speed)

This case utilized judicial review to overturn the precedent set in Plessy v. Ferguson. The Supreme Court ruled that segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, demonstrating the judiciary's power to reassess and invalidate past rulings when they conflict with constitutional principles.

Roe v. Wade (1973) - Checks and Balances

While primarily associated with reproductive rights, Roe v. Wade also illustrates judicial review, as the Supreme Court invalidated state laws banning abortion, ruling them unconstitutional under the Fourteenth Amendment. This decision showcased the judiciary's role in interpreting constitutional rights and balancing state and federal powers.

Furman v Georgia (1972)

Roper v Simmons, 2005

Obergefell v Hodges, 2015

Griswold v Connecticut, 1965

Dobbs v Jackson Women’s Health Organization, 2022

Mapp v Ohio, 1961

Gideon v Wainwright 1963

Escobedo v Illinois 1964

Griswold v Connecticut 1965

Miranda v Arizona 1966

Tinker v Des Moines Independent Community 

School District, 1969

New Jersey v TLO 1984

Hazelwood School District v Kuhlmeier, 1988

Vernonia School District v Acton, 1995

Illinois v Caballes, 2005

Frederick v Morse, 2007

Engel v Vitale, 1962

Abington School District v Schempp, 1963

Murray v Curlett, 1963

Stone v Graham,1980

Santa Fe Independent School District v Doe, 2000

Kennedy v Bremerton School District

New York Times v United States, 1971

United States v Miller, 1939

Unanimous

District of Columbia v Heller, 2008

(5 to 4)

McDonald v Chicago, 2010

(5 to 4)

Heart of Atlanta Motel v United States, 1964

Shelby County v Holder, 2013