Who has the final authority over the interpretation of laws?

The Supreme Court holds the final authority over the interpretation of laws in the United States. This power is part of the checks and balances system established by the Constitution, which divides governmental authority among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The Supreme Court's role is to interpret the Constitution and to evaluate the legality of laws and governmental actions. When a law is challenged or its interpretation is disputed, it is the Supreme Court that has the ultimate responsibility to make binding decisions on these matters, ensuring that federal and state laws comply with the Constitution. This authority helps to maintain a uniform judicial system and protects individual rights within the legal framework.

Other branches, such as the President and the Senate, have their own functions but do not possess this specific power of judicial review. State courts handle local cases and may interpret state laws, but the final decision on constitutional matters at the national level rests with the Supreme Court.