The list below describes several characteristics of the American legal system. Fair procedures
Accountability of officials to written rules
Legal decisions based on written rules
Rules are known to everyone and applied consistently

What has been an important long-term impact of these characteristics?
American leaders have periodically been able to increase their power.
There have been no limits to the power of the majority of citizens expressed in national elections.
Individual rights have been protected against arbitrary actions by government officials.
Americans have enjoyed unlimited individual rights even when these endanger the safety of others.