Judicial Branch Research Paper

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The Constitution was originally divided into seven articles. The first article in the Constitution grants the Legislative Branch its powers along with its limitations. It states that the Legislative Branch- also known as Congress- is divided into two houses: the House of Representatives, and the Senate. Congress has the authority to manage money by taxing, borrowing money, and regulating trade. Additionally, other important powers Congress incorporates is the authority to raise armies and preserving the navy. On the other hand, in spite of the fact that Congress has many powers, it also has restrictions. Congress cannot do any of the following: deny the writ of habeas corpus, tax on exports, pass any ex post facto laws, or pass trade regulations …show more content…

Article three sets up the judicial branch and defines treason. The federal courts of the judicial branch have jurisdiction in all cases that fall under the Constitution, laws, treaties, citizens and states. Treason is when someone either makes war against the United States, is an enemy of the United States or is giving aid to enemies of the United States. The punishment of treason is decided by Congress; however, unlike the old days, the children of a convicted traitor shall not be punished. Article four of the Constitution regulates the states’ powers, and their interaction with the federal government. The most salient statement of this article is that no matter where in the United States you go, your records are always valid. This includes marriage and drivers’ license. Article five of the Constitution sets up the amendment process. In order to ratify an amendment proposed by Congress, ⅗ of the states must vote in favor of ratifying it. On the other hand, in order to ratify an amendment proposed by the states, ¾ of the state’s votes are necessary. Article six of the Constitution sets the status of the Constitution as the national supremacy to which leaders must be faithful. Conclusively, article seven of the Constitution addresses ratification and declares that if 9/13 ratify the Constitution, it will go into …show more content…

Congress has the authority to declare war, which has only been done 11 times. Congress decides to use this power when they deem it necessary for the safety of the United States citizens and other reasons. Another important power that Congress has is the power to tax. It is used in order to pay debts like war debts, to provide for the common Defense and the General Welfare of the United States. Also, Congress has the power to establish post offices. It is used by Congress to exclude obscene materials from the mails. Congress can also make laws and they use this power when it is necessary for carrying out Congress’ powers. A fifth power that Congress has is the power to borrow money on the credit of the United States. They do so by selling various debt instruments into the financial markets. Lastly, Congress can coin money, which refers to the ability of printing legal money. They do this to fabricate the money used by the nation and also regulate the supply; however, Congress cannot make money for themselves, as a result, they have to borrow or make it by taxing and other