John David Phillips
Phillips is not alone in his criticism of government. He received support in 2006 when retiring judge William Ormiston agreed with Phillips’ comments. Chief Justice Marilyn Warren responded to the criticism by saying that "bureaucrats did not tell her what to do". Warren noted that whilst there were disagreements between her and the government from time to time, the judges run the courts, not public servants. Warren said
"The court, as part of our structure of government, is independent. As part of Victoria's constitutional arrangements, the Supreme Court is the third arm of government."
Constitution of Denmark
As in many other democracies, the Danish Constitutional Act divides power into three independent branches—the legislative, the executive and the judicial branches—in order to encourage checks and balances and prevent abuse of power. The Danish Parliament is the legislative power, enacting the laws of the country. The Cabinet (Government) is the executive power, formally acting out the role of the Monarch, by ensuring that laws are implemented. The Supreme Court and lower courts of law are the judicial power, pronouncing judgements in disputes between citizens and between the authorities and citizens.