The Marbury Vs. Madison Case In 1803

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The Marbury vs. Madison case in 1803 is seen by many to be the most important case in Supreme Court history. It is the first case where the court declared an act of Congress void because it went against the Constitution. The case originated when President John Adams appointed several Federalist judges to the D.C. courts prior to leaving office. The judiciary appointments were approved by congress and signed by President Adams. The last step needed for the judges to take office was a piece of paper called a commission, which confirms that the judges are allowed to take office. When the newly elected President Thomas Jefferson took office, he told his Secretary of State, James Madison, to not let the commissions be delivered. William Marbury