Definition of Checks and Balances for kids
Definition: Checks and Balances are limits and controls limits imposed on all branches of a government by giving each branch of government the right to amend or void certain acts of other the branches. Checks and Balances for kids - Separation of Power
The US Constitution was designed to prevent a concentration of power in one government office or with one government official which might lead to the abuse of power. The Legislative Branch make the laws, the Judicial Branch interprets the law and the Executive Branch, which is headed by the President, enforces the law. Checks and Balances for kids - The Constitution
The US Constitution describes how the Checks and Balances are organized and how government officials are chosen to ensure a balance of power is maintained. Each branch has a different function to make, enforce and interpret laws according to the Constitution. The Checks and Balances are governed by the laws and all decisions and actions are based on the law which applies equally to everyone. The Constitution is known as the "Supreme Law of the Land" because all government officials, and all US citizens, must uphold the principles and laws of the US Constitution. Checks and Balances for kids - The Legislative Branch
The system and function of the Legislative Branch of the Government is defined on the following chart: | US CONSTITUTION | | | | Checks and Balances for kids - The Legislative Branch | | | | Legislative Branch | The Legislative Branch of Government, carried out by Congress, has the power to make the laws and has the power to pass, repeal (cancel) and amend laws as defined in Article I of the Constitution.
The Executive Checks and Balances: The Checks and Balances that can be exercised by the Executive on the Legislative division are:- The President can veto a bill that has been passed by Congress
- The President can temporarily appoint senior officials without the approval of the Senate
- The President can call special sessions and force an adjournment when both houses cannot agree
- Congress cannot reduce the salary of the president (whilst in office)
The Judicial Checks and Balances: The Checks and Balances that can be exercised by the Judicial branch on the Legislative division are:- The Judiciary has the power to declare laws unconstitutional
- The Chief justice will preside over impeachment trials
- Congress cannot reduce the salary of a judge whilst in office
|  | | The US Capitol | | | | Legislative Branch | | Congress | | Senate & House of Representatives | | Agencies | | Budgets | | Economics | | Statistics | | Library of Congress |
Checks and Balances for kids - The Legislative Branch Checks and Balances for kids - The Judicial Branch
The system and function of the Judicial Branch of the Government is defined on the following chart:| US CONSTITUTION | | | | Checks and Balances for kids - The Judicial Branch | | | | Judicial Branch | The Judicial Branch of Government, carried out by the courts and judges, has the power to interpret the law and to provide a mechanism for the resolution of disputes as defined in Article III of the Constitution. The Judicial Branch consists of the Supreme Court and the Lower Courts.
The Legislative Checks and Balances: The Checks and Balances that can be exercised by the Legislative on the Judicial division are:- The Legislative branch has the power to impeach and remove judges
- The Legislative division can initiate amendments to the Constitution
- It can alter the structure and the size of courts
- It is empowered to set court budgets
- It is allowed to approve Federal Judges
The Executive Checks and Balances: The Checks and Balances that can be exercised by the Executive on the Judicial division are:- The President can appoint judges
- The President can pardon convicted criminals
|  | | The Supreme Court | | | | Judicial Branch | | Supreme Court | | Lower Courts | | State Courts | | Tax Court | | Circuit Courts of Appeal |
Checks and Balances for kids - The Legislative Branch | 
