Which concept ensures court decisions are made without undue influence from other branches?

• A. Privacy
• B. Civil disobedience
• C. Draftee
• D. Independent judiciary

Answer: (D)

Judicial independence is the principle that allows courts to decide cases based on the law, not on political pressure from other branches of government. When judges are independent, they can resist influence from the legislative or executive branches and issue rulings that are impartial, consistent with the Constitution, and protective of rights. This separation keeps checks and balances working: courts can uphold due process and strike down laws or actions that overstep constitutional limits without fear of losing office or funding. Mechanisms like secure tenure, protected salaries, and independent funding help maintain this freedom from external pressure.

Privacy deals with protecting personal information and autonomy; civil disobedience is a protest tactic; a draftee is someone called to military service. These do not address keeping the judiciary free from influence, whereas an independent judiciary specifically ensures court decisions are made without undue interference from other branches.