Checks and balances in a federal government ensure that power is distributed among various branches—usually the executive, legislative, and judicial branches—to prevent any one from becoming too powerful. Each branch has distinct responsibilities and the ability to monitor and restrain the others, promoting accountability. For example, the legislative branch passes laws, but the executive branch can veto them, while the judiciary interprets laws and can declare them unconstitutional. This system is fundamental in upholding democracy and safeguarding against authoritarian rule by creating a network of reciprocal oversight.