Supreme Court

Definition

The Supreme Court is the highest federal court in the United States, established by the Constitution, which has the ultimate authority in interpreting laws and the Constitution itself. It plays a crucial role in the judicial system, particularly in cases involving significant constitutional issues, and its decisions set important precedents that guide lower courts. The Supreme Court hears appeals on a limited basis, focusing on cases that have broad legal or societal implications.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Supreme Court consists of nine justices, including one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices, who are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate.
2. The Court has both original jurisdiction in specific types of cases and appellate jurisdiction for reviewing decisions made by lower courts.
3. Cases are usually heard by the Supreme Court only if they involve important legal questions or conflicting decisions from different appellate courts.
4. The decisions made by the Supreme Court can only be overturned by a later Supreme Court decision or through constitutional amendment.
5. Oral arguments before the Supreme Court are typically limited to 30 minutes per side, allowing justices to ask questions during presentations.

Review Questions

• How does the Supreme Court's role in judicial review enhance its authority in interpreting the Constitution?
  • The Supreme Court's power of judicial review allows it to evaluate and invalidate laws or executive actions that conflict with the Constitution. This function enhances its authority by establishing the Court as the final arbiter of constitutional interpretation. When the Supreme Court strikes down legislation or government actions, it reinforces its critical role in maintaining checks and balances within the federal government.
• What factors contribute to the Supreme Court's decision to hear certain cases over others, particularly regarding appeals?
  • The Supreme Court selects cases based on several factors, such as whether there are conflicting decisions among lower courts, significant constitutional questions involved, or issues that have broad implications for society. The Court often prioritizes cases that could establish important precedents or resolve ambiguity in the law. Additionally, public interest and implications for federal law may also influence their decisions on which cases to accept for review.
• Evaluate how Supreme Court decisions shape legal precedent and influence lower courts within the American legal system.
  • Supreme Court decisions create binding precedents that lower courts must follow, thereby shaping legal interpretations across various jurisdictions. This process of establishing legal norms ensures consistency in how laws are applied and interpreted nationwide. Furthermore, significant rulings can lead to shifts in public policy and social norms, as seen in landmark cases like Brown v. Board of Education and Roe v. Wade, where the implications extended far beyond individual cases, affecting legislative action and societal values.

Related terms

Judicial Review: The power of the Supreme Court to examine laws and actions of the legislative and executive branches and determine their constitutionality.

Writ of Certiorari: A legal order by which the Supreme Court agrees to review a lower court's decision, typically involving cases of significant public interest.

Precedent: A legal principle or rule established in a previous case that is either binding or persuasive for courts when deciding subsequent cases.