Plain-English Explanation
Constitutional rights are protections guaranteed by the United States Constitution, primarily through the Bill of Rights. They limit government action and are enforced against federal and state actors through judicial review.
Relevant Provision
U.S. Constitution, Amendments I–X (Bill of Rights); Amendment XIV (Due Process and Equal Protection).
Relevant Decisions
Marbury v. Madison
5 U.S. (1 Cranch) 137 (1803)
Established the principle of judicial review — the power of courts to determine whether acts of government are constitutional.