12. the president nominates judges. how can the legislative branch check that power?

Brief Explanations:

In a system of checks - and - balances, the legislative branch (Congress) can check the president's power of nominating judges by having the Senate conduct hearings and vote on the confirmation of the nominees. If the Senate does not approve, the nominee cannot take the judicial position.

Answer:

The Senate can conduct hearings and vote on the confirmation of the judicial nominees.