- Interpretation of law to avoid ambiguity.
- Administers punishment to offenders of the law.
- Interprets the constitution.
- Adjudicates civil disputes between citizens, individuals, institutions and government.
- Checks the excesses of both the executive and legislature through its power of judicial review.
- Safe-guards the rights and liberties of citizens.
NOTE: The judiciary is said to be independent when it has the ability to interpret the laws freely and pass judgment impartially without fear or favour.