In general terms, it can be argued that in Western democracies today, judicial systems and courts have maintained a largely independent role in the political process. While there may be instances where the judicial system is influenced by political factors, overall, the Western democracies have solid legal frameworks and checks and balances in place to ensure the independence and impartiality of the judiciary. One of the main reasons why judicial systems in Western democracies have managed to maintain their independence is the principle of separation of powers. This principle ensures that the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government are separate and operate independently of each other. This separation of powers prevents any one branch from exerting undue influence over the judicial system. In addition to the principle of separation of powers, most Western democracies have established constitutional frameworks that protect the independence of the judiciary. For example, many democratic countries have constitutions that guarantee judicial independence and provide judges with certain immunities and privileges. These constitutional safeguards help protect judges from political interference and ensure their impartiality. Furthermore, the appointment process for judges in Western democracies is often rigorous and aims to select individuals who are qualified and have a strong commitment to upholding the rule of law. In many countries, judicial appointments are made by independent bodies or commissions, rather than by the executive or legislative branches. This helps to ensure that judges are selected based on merit and not on political considerations. Moreover, Western democracies place great importance on the rule of law, which is a fundamental principle that ensures equality and fairness in the legal system. The rule of law protects individuals from arbitrary actions by the government and requires that laws be applied impartially and consistently. Judicial systems in Western democracies are designed to uphold the rule of law and ensure that all individuals, regardless of their political affiliation, are treated fairly and have access to justice. While there may be instances where political factors influence the judicial system, such cases are often the exception rather than the norm in Western democracies. It is important to recognize that the media and public scrutiny play a crucial role in holding the judiciary accountable. Journalists and civil society organizations closely monitor court proceedings, ensuring transparency and raising awareness of any potential bias or political influence. This scrutiny helps to maintain the independence of the judiciary and contributes to public trust in the legal system. Overall, while no system is perfect, it is fair to say that in Western democracies, judicial systems have largely maintained their independence and play a vital role in the political process as a check on executive and legislative power. The separation of powers, constitutional frameworks, rigorous appointment processes, emphasis on the rule of law, and media scrutiny all contribute to the independence of the judiciary and its ability to uphold justice impartially.