SUPREME COURT OF THE UNITED STATES

The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) is the highest judicial authority in the country, established in 1789 by Article III of the U.S. Constitution. It serves as the final arbiter of federal constitutional law, ensuring the American legal system adheres to the principles outlined in the Constitution. The Court has nine Justices, including one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices, appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate for lifetime terms.

SCOTUS primarily reviews cases involving constitutional disputes, federal law interpretation, and conflicts between states or the federal government. Its decisions have a profound impact on American society, influencing key areas such as civil rights, individual freedoms, and the balance of governmental powers. Landmark cases like Brown v. Board of Education (ending racial segregation in schools) and Roe v. Wade (addressing abortion rights) have shaped the nation’s legal and cultural landscape.

The Supreme Court operates with discretion in choosing which cases to hear, granting writs of certiorari for significant legal questions. Its rulings set binding precedents for lower courts to follow. With its authority to declare laws or executive actions unconstitutional, SCOTUS plays a critical role in maintaining the rule of law and protecting the democratic principles of the United States.