Which of the following is the role of the judicial branch?

The role of the judicial branch is primarily to interpret the laws of the United States. This function encompasses the responsibility of the courts to evaluate and apply laws when disputes arise, ensuring that they are understood and implemented in a way that aligns with the Constitution. The judicial branch acts as a check on the legislative and executive branches by reviewing laws passed by Congress and decisions made by the President to ensure their constitutionality and fairness.

This role is critical for upholding the rule of law in a democratic society, where the rights of individuals are often protected through judicial review, allowing the courts to resolve conflicts and protect citizens’ rights under the Constitution.

In contrast, the functions described in the other options do not align with the primary function of the judicial branch: carrying out and executing laws is the responsibility of the executive branch, while the making of laws falls under the authority of the legislative branch. Thus, the focus of the judicial branch remains distinctly on interpretation, making it a vital component of the checks and balances inherent to the U.S. government structure.