Which branch of government is responsible for interpreting laws?

The branch of government responsible for interpreting laws is the judicial branch. This branch is tasked with applying the law to specific situations and ensuring that laws comply with the constitution. It plays a critical role in the checks and balances system, where it reviews the actions of the legislative and executive branches. The judicial branch not only interprets laws in court cases but also settles disputes and protects individual rights against potential overreach by the other branches of government. Courts and judges operate within this branch, making decisions on legal interpretations that can set important precedents. Understanding this function is fundamental to grasping how the legal system operates in Arizona and the broader context of U.S. governance.