Landmark decision facts for kids

A landmark decision is a very important ruling made by a court. It's like a big step forward in how laws are understood. These decisions create new rules or ideas in the law. Sometimes, they change how existing laws are used. Think of it as a major update to the rulebook!

In countries like the United Kingdom or Canada (part of the Commonwealth of Nations), these important rulings are often called leading decisions. They are seen as settling a legal question. This means they help everyone understand what the law means in a certain area.

A landmark decision can have a big impact for a long time. But sometimes, things like changes in politics, the economy, or society can make their effects less strong over time. Still, a landmark decision is known for changing a whole part of the law for a period.

What is a Landmark Decision?

A landmark decision is a court case that sets a new precedent. A precedent is like an example or a rule for future cases. When a court makes a landmark decision, it means that decision will guide how similar cases are handled later on. It's a bit like setting a new standard.

Why are they important?

Landmark decisions are important because they shape the law. They can affect how people live, work, and interact. For example, a decision might change rules about schools, businesses, or even how the government works. They help make sure the law is fair and clear for everyone.

How do they change the law?

These decisions can change the law in a few ways. They might introduce a brand new legal idea. Or, they might take an old law and give it a completely new meaning. This means that what was once understood in one way might now be understood differently.

Landmark Decisions in the United States

The Constitution of the United States is the main set of rules for the U.S. government. It didn't specifically say that the Supreme Court could review laws. But the Supreme Court took on this power itself. This happened with its very first landmark decision.

Marbury v. Madison (1803)

One of the most famous early landmark decisions in the U.S. was Marbury v. Madison. This case happened in 1803. In this decision, the Supreme Court said it had the "power to say what the law is." This meant the Court could decide if a law followed the Constitution or not. This power is called judicial review. It allows the Supreme Court to check if laws made by Congress or actions by the President are constitutional.

How did it change things?

The Marbury v. Madison decision was a huge deal. It gave the Supreme Court the right to interpret the Constitution. This made the Supreme Court a very powerful part of the U.S. government. It became the final say on what the Constitution means.