INTRO: The U.S. Supreme Court stands as the highest judicial authority in the United States, playing a crucial role in interpreting the Constitution and shaping American law. Established over two centuries ago, this institution has a profound impact on the nation’s legal landscape and public policy. Here are ten notable facts about the U.S. Supreme Court that illustrate its significance and workings.
1. The U.S. Supreme Court was established in 1789.
The U.S. Supreme Court was created under the Judiciary Act of 1789, which was signed into law by President George Washington. The founding fathers intended for the Court to serve as the final arbiter of legal disputes and to ensure that laws align with the Constitution. Initially, the Court convened in New York City before moving to Philadelphia, and finally to its current home in Washington, D.C. This establishment marked a pivotal moment in the formation of the U.S. judicial system, setting the foundation for the balance of power among the three branches of government.
2. The Court currently has nine justices, including a Chief Justice.
The Supreme Court is composed of nine justices, one of whom serves as the Chief Justice. This structure has been maintained since 1869. The Chief Justice, currently John Roberts, has several important responsibilities, including presiding over Court sessions and leading the discussion of cases among the justices. The other eight justices, known as associate justices, contribute to opinions that can significantly influence the direction of U.S. law. The Court’s composition can shift with new appointments, which often reflects the political climate of the nation.
3. Supreme Court justices serve lifetime appointments, barring impeachment.
One of the unique aspects of the Supreme Court is that justices are appointed for life, allowing them to operate independently of political pressures. This tenure can only be terminated through impeachment by Congress, a process that is exceedingly rare. This system is designed to ensure justices can make decisions based solely on their interpretations of the law and the Constitution, rather than catering to popular opinion or political influences. As a result, justices can shape legal precedents that endure for generations.
4. The Court’s first female justice, Sandra Day O’Connor, was appointed in 1981.
Sandra Day O’Connor broke barriers when she was nominated by President Ronald Reagan and confirmed as the first female justice on the Supreme Court in 1981. Her appointment marked a significant step towards gender equality in the judiciary, inspiring future generations of women to pursue careers in law and public service. O’Connor served for over 24 years and was known for her pragmatic approach to cases, often serving as a pivotal swing vote on matters concerning civil rights, reproductive rights, and affirmative action.
5. The Supreme Court hears less than 1% of cases submitted each year.
Each year, thousands of cases are submitted to the Supreme Court, but the justices only hear a small fraction—typically around 70 to 80 cases. This selective process is primarily driven by the Court’s focus on cases that have broad legal significance or that address conflicting decisions in lower courts. Interested parties must file a petition for certiorari to appeal for the Court’s review, and the justices carefully evaluate these requests to determine which cases will be granted a hearing. This limited docket ensures that the Court can devote adequate time and resources to each case it selects.
6. Landmark decisions like Roe v. Wade reshaped American law.
Throughout its history, the Supreme Court has issued landmark decisions that have reshaped American law and society. One of the most notable cases is Roe v. Wade (1973), which recognized a woman’s right to choose to have an abortion under the constitutional right to privacy. This decision sparked decades of debate and polarized public opinion, influencing laws and political platforms across the nation. Such landmark rulings often have lasting implications, affecting legislative action and societal norms long after the decisions are rendered.
7. The Court has the power to declare laws unconstitutional.
The Supreme Court holds the vital power of judicial review, allowing it to declare laws or executive actions unconstitutional if they are found to violate the Constitution. This authority was established in the landmark case Marbury v. Madison (1803), where Chief Justice John Marshall asserted the Court’s role in interpreting the Constitution. Judicial review serves as a check on legislative and executive power, ensuring that laws align with constitutional principles and protecting individual rights against government overreach.
8. Supreme Court justices are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate.
The appointment of Supreme Court justices involves a two-step process. The President nominates candidates, often considering their judicial philosophy, experience, and political alignment. Following the nomination, the Senate conducts hearings where they evaluate the candidate’s qualifications and judicial record. This culminates in a Senate vote to confirm or reject the nominee. This process reflects the system of checks and balances, as it requires both the executive and legislative branches to collaborate in appointing justices who will interpret the law for decades.
9. The Court’s annual term begins on the first Monday in October.
The Supreme Court operates on an annual term that begins on the first Monday in October and typically concludes in late June. During this period, the justices hear oral arguments, review case briefs, and deliberate on decisions. The beginning of the term is marked with a ceremonial opening, and the justices often tackle significant cases that can influence legal standards and societal issues. The Court’s schedule is meticulously planned, allowing for a structured approach to the vast array of cases that come before it.
10. Justices often influence public policy beyond legal matters.
While the primary role of the Supreme Court is to interpret the law, the decisions made by the justices often have far-reaching implications for public policy and societal norms. The Court’s rulings can influence issues such as education, healthcare, and civil rights, prompting legislative changes and shaping public discourse. Justices, through their legal interpretations, can catalyze movements for social change or reinforce existing structures, illustrating the powerful intersection of law and public policy in the American legal system.
OUTRO: The U.S. Supreme Court is not merely a judicial body; it serves as a cornerstone of American democracy, shaping the legal landscape and influencing the trajectory of public policy. Understanding these ten facts about the Supreme Court provides insight into its essential functions and enduring impact on society. As the nation continues to evolve, so too will the role of the Supreme Court in navigating complex legal and constitutional questions.