What is the main function of the judicial branch?

The main function of the judicial branch is to decide if laws violate the Constitution. This role is crucial in maintaining the system of checks and balances established by the Constitution. The judicial branch, particularly through the Supreme Court and other lower courts, has the authority to review laws and executive actions to ensure they comply with the Constitution. This process, known as judicial review, allows the courts to invalidate laws and actions that are found to be unconstitutional.

Upholding the Constitution as the supreme law of the land is foundational to the American legal system, ensuring that individual rights and liberties are protected from governmental overreach. This function also maintains the rule of law, a principle that undergirds democratic governance.

While creating laws is the role of the legislative branch and enforcing laws falls under the executive branch, the judiciary's unique responsibility is to interpret the law and assess its alignment with the Constitution, ensuring justice and the legal rights of citizens are upheld. Interpreting treaties is part of this branch's functions but is more specific and not the broadest answer relating to its main function overall.