What is the primary function of judicial review in the legal system?

The primary function of judicial review is to empower courts to determine the constitutionality of legislative acts and executive actions. This process is fundamental in maintaining the rule of law and ensuring that no law or government action can violate the rights and principles established by the Constitution. Judicial review serves as a check on the legislative and executive branches of government, safeguarding against potential abuses of power and ensuring that all laws adhere to constitutional standards.

In the context of a functioning democracy, judicial review reinforces the separation of powers and ensures accountability. It allows courts to invalidate laws and actions that are found to be unconstitutional, thus protecting individual rights and upholding the principles set forth in the Constitution. This process is crucial in upholding the integrity of the legal system and ensuring that justice is administered fairly and impartially.

The other options represent specific functions of the court system but do not encapsulate the broader significance of judicial review. For example, deciding the outcome of legal disputes focuses narrowly on conflict resolution rather than constitutional oversight. Assessing personal jurisdiction pertains to a court's authority over a defendant, which is a procedural matter rather than a constitutional one. Similarly, implementing penalties for legislative violations is about enforcement rather than reviewing the fundamental legality of legislation itself. Thus, option B accurately reflects the critical role