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Marbury Case Brief

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Marbury v Madison, 5 U.S. 137, (1803) 5 U.S. 137 (Cranch)
Facts
The Judiciary Act of 1801 gave the President the authority to appoint Federal Judges. During the interim period when President Adams term was coming to close and President-elect Jefferson’s term was set to begin, President Adams appointed several federal Judges, including William Marbury. The commissions were signed and sealed by Acting Secretary of State, John Marshal, but were not delivered prior to the end of the expiration of President Adams term. William Marbury motioned that the Supreme Court compel the new Secretary of State, James Madison, to deliver the commission.
Issues
At issue are the questions does William Marbury have the right to the commission and if so, are there laws granting Marbury a remedy. Additionally, Marbury is requesting intervention from the Supreme Court which brings to question whether Supreme Court has the authority to review and determine acts of congress, including acts that are void due to them being unconstitutional. Lastly, does congress have the authority to enlarge the scope of Supreme Court’s jurisdiction further than that discussed in Article III of the constitution and does Supreme Court maintain exclusive jurisdiction with regard to writs of mandamus.
Law
1) William Marbury had right to the commission as the grant of commission to him took effect when it was signed by President Adams.
2) There are laws granting Marbury a remedy. The government is responsible for affording allowing any and every individual to claim the protection of the law.
3) Congress does not have the authority to expand the scope of the Supreme Court’s jurisdiction beyond that listed in Article III.
4) The Supreme Court does not have original jurisdiction with regard to writs of mandamus.
Conclusion
Application for a writ of mandamus was denied. Marbury did not get the commission.

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