Supreme Court

Definition

The Supreme Court is the highest federal court in the United States, established by the Constitution, and serves as the ultimate authority in interpreting laws and resolving legal disputes. It is composed of nine justices who are appointed for life, ensuring independence from political pressures. The Supreme Court not only resolves conflicts between state and federal laws but also plays a crucial role in shaping American law through its decisions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Supreme Court was established in 1789 as part of the Judiciary Act and has grown in prominence over the years as the final arbiter of constitutional law.
2. Justices are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate, allowing for a balance between executive and legislative branches in judicial appointments.
3. The Supreme Court hears about 70 to 80 cases each term from thousands of petitions submitted, focusing on significant legal questions.
4. The Court’s decisions can only be overturned by a subsequent Supreme Court ruling or by constitutional amendment, making its interpretations of law highly influential.
5. Notable landmark cases, such as Brown v. Board of Education and Roe v. Wade, demonstrate the Supreme Court's powerful role in addressing social issues and civil rights.

Review Questions

• How does the appointment process of justices to the Supreme Court reflect the balance of power within the U.S. government?
  • The appointment process for Supreme Court justices involves both the President and the Senate, showcasing a system of checks and balances. The President nominates justices, reflecting their political philosophy and agenda, while the Senate has the power to confirm or reject these nominees. This process ensures that no single branch can dominate judicial appointments, promoting independence within the judiciary while maintaining accountability to elected officials.
• Discuss how judicial review empowers the Supreme Court and its implications on legislation passed by Congress.
  • Judicial review grants the Supreme Court the authority to interpret laws and determine their constitutionality. This power allows the Court to strike down legislation passed by Congress if it conflicts with the Constitution. As a result, judicial review serves as a critical check on legislative power, ensuring that laws adhere to constitutional principles and protecting individual rights against potential governmental overreach.
• Evaluate how landmark decisions made by the Supreme Court have influenced societal change in America.
  • Landmark decisions such as Brown v. Board of Education and Roe v. Wade have profoundly impacted American society by redefining civil rights and personal liberties. These rulings not only established legal precedents but also sparked national conversations and movements aimed at social justice and reform. The influence of these decisions extends beyond legal contexts, as they often mobilize public opinion and lead to further legislative action, illustrating the dynamic interplay between law and society.

Related terms

Judicial Review: The power of the Supreme Court to invalidate laws and executive actions that it finds unconstitutional.

Federal Court System: The structure of courts established under the Constitution, including the Supreme Court, Courts of Appeals, and District Courts, which handle cases involving federal law.

Case Law: Law established by the outcome of former court cases, which serves as a precedent for future legal decisions.