The concept of checks and balances is vital in a government system to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power. Typically, this system involves three branches: the executive, legislative, and judicial. Each branch has specific powers and responsibilities, allowing them to limit each other's authority. For instance, the legislative branch can make laws, but the executive can veto them, while the judicial branch interprets laws and can rule them unconstitutional. This mechanism ensures accountability and protects against abuses of power, promoting a stable and fair governance structure.