What is the role of the judiciary in Wyoming's system?

• A. To enforce laws directly
• B. To oversee elections
• C. To interpret laws and protect constitutional rights; hear cases and issue rulings
• D. To create new laws

Answer: (C)

The judiciary’s job is to interpret laws and protect constitutional rights, and to hear cases and issue rulings. Judges analyze statutes passed by the Legislature to determine how they should be applied, and they ensure these laws and government actions comply with Wyoming’s Constitution. They resolve disputes between individuals, government agencies, and the state, and they safeguard fundamental rights such as due process and protection from unlawful government action. This branch acts as a check on the other branches by reviewing executive or legislative actions for legality and, when necessary, striking down actions that violate the Constitution. It does not enforce laws directly—that is the executive branch’s role—nor does it create new laws—that power rests with the Legislature.