Supreme Court

Definition

The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States, established by the Constitution, which serves as the final arbiter of legal disputes and interprets the laws of the land. Its primary role is to ensure that the Constitution is upheld and that laws passed by Congress and state legislatures are consistent with constitutional principles. The decisions made by the Supreme Court have a profound impact on American law and society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Supreme Court consists of nine justices who are appointed for life by the President and confirmed by the Senate.
2. It has both original jurisdiction (cases involving ambassadors and states) and appellate jurisdiction (most cases it hears come on appeal from lower courts).
3. The landmark case Marbury v. Madison established the principle of judicial review, allowing the Supreme Court to strike down laws that violate the Constitution.
4. The Court's decisions can lead to significant social change, as seen in cases like Brown v. Board of Education, which declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional.
5. The Supreme Court often issues opinions that include majority, concurring, and dissenting views, providing insights into differing interpretations of the law.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of the Supreme Court influence its function within the American legal system?
  • The Supreme Court's structure, comprising nine justices with lifetime appointments, allows it to operate independently from political pressures. This independence is crucial for its role as a check on legislative and executive powers, enabling it to make decisions based solely on constitutional interpretation. The diversity in viewpoints among justices also leads to comprehensive legal analysis and robust debates, which shapes the development of constitutional law.
• What impact does judicial review have on the balance of power among the branches of government?
  • Judicial review empowers the Supreme Court to invalidate laws or executive actions that conflict with the Constitution, significantly influencing the balance of power in government. By exercising this power, the Court can check legislative and executive overreach, ensuring that neither branch exceeds its authority. This function helps maintain a system of checks and balances vital for protecting individual rights and upholding democratic principles.
• Evaluate the significance of landmark Supreme Court cases in shaping American society and legal precedent.
  • Landmark Supreme Court cases play a crucial role in shaping American society by addressing significant social issues and setting legal precedents that influence future court decisions. For instance, decisions like Roe v. Wade regarding reproductive rights or Obergefell v. Hodges concerning same-sex marriage have not only transformed societal norms but also reflected changing values within society. The implications of these rulings extend beyond legal technicalities; they often provoke national discussions about civil rights and justice, ultimately guiding legislative changes and public policy.

Related terms

Judicial Review: The power of the Supreme Court to review and invalidate legislation or executive actions that are deemed unconstitutional.

Constitution: The foundational legal document of the United States, outlining the structure of government and the rights of citizens.

Precedent: A legal decision or ruling that serves as an example or rule for future cases, often established by Supreme Court decisions.