1. Checks and Balances

2. Executive Branch (led by the President) – Enforces Laws

3. Executive Branch Checks on Legis Branch
Veto Laws
Negotiate Treaties
Propose Laws
Call Special Sessions

4. Executive Branch Checks on Judicial Branch
Appoint federal judges
Pardon federal judges

5. Legislative Branch (Congress) Makes Laws

6. Legislative Branch Checks on Executive Branch
Override Veto
Declare War
Ratify Treaties
Confirm executive appointments
Impeach and remove the President

7. Legislative Branch Checks on Judicial Branch
Confirm appointments of federal judges
Impeach and remove judges

8. Judicial Branch (Led by Supreme Court) – Interprets Laws

9. Judicial Branch Checks on Executive Branch
Declare executive (President) actions unconstitutional

10. Judicial Branch Checks on Legislative Branch
Declare laws/acts of Congress unconstitutional (in other words they “interpret” the laws)