A judiciary is a system of courts that interprets and applies the law in a country or region. It is responsible for resolving disputes, protecting rights, and ensuring justice. The judiciary operates independently from the executive and legislative branches of government, which helps maintain a balance of power. Judiciaries can vary in structure, but they typically include various levels of courts, such as trial courts, appellate courts, and supreme courts. Judges and magistrates are appointed or elected to oversee cases and make legal decisions based on established laws and precedents.