Introduction:
Democracy is a form of government in which power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or through elected representatives. It is characterized by certain essential features that contribute to its functioning and credibility. One of these features is the independence of the judiciary.

Explanation:
1. Independence of the Judiciary: The independence of the judiciary is a fundamental feature of democracy. It ensures that the judiciary is free from any external influence or control, allowing it to make impartial decisions based on the constitution and laws. This independence is crucial for upholding the rule of law and protecting individual rights and liberties. It ensures that the judiciary can act as a check on the executive and legislative branches, preventing any abuse of power.

2. Responsibility to the Legislature: The judiciary is separate from the legislative branch and is not directly responsible to it. This separation of powers is an essential feature of democracy. The judiciary is responsible for interpreting and applying the law, while the legislature is responsible for making laws. This separation ensures that the judiciary can exercise its power independently and without any influence from the legislature or other branches of government.

3. Freedom of the Press: Another essential feature of democracy is the freedom of the press. The press plays a vital role in providing information, facilitating public discourse, and holding those in power accountable. It acts as a watchdog, exposing corruption, injustice, and abuses of power. Freedom of the press ensures that citizens have access to diverse sources of information and can make informed decisions.

4. Freedom to Express Public Opinion: Democracy thrives on the freedom of expression. It allows individuals to express their opinions, ideas, and criticisms without fear of retribution or censorship. This freedom fosters a vibrant public discourse, encourages citizen participation, and enables the exchange of diverse perspectives. It is essential for the functioning of democracy as it allows for the representation of different viewpoints and the formation of consensus.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the independence of the judiciary, freedom of the press, and the freedom to express public opinion are all essential features of a democracy. However, the responsibility of the judiciary to the legislature is not an essential feature. The judiciary's responsibility is primarily to uphold the constitution and ensure justice, not to be accountable to the legislature. This separation of powers allows for an independent judiciary that can act as a check on the other branches of government and protect the rights and liberties of citizens.