The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States and the final interpreter of the Constitution. Its nine justices are appointed for life by the President and confirmed by the Senate. The Court hears roughly 80 cases per year out of the 7,000+ petitions it receives, and its decisions shape American law on civil rights, executive power, free speech, and more.
Court Composition
Clarence Thomas
John G. Roberts Jr.
Samuel A. Alito Jr.
Sonia Sotomayor
Elena Kagan
Neil M. Gorsuch
Brett M. Kavanaugh
Amy Coney Barrett
Ketanji Brown Jackson
How the Supreme Court Works
Nomination & Confirmation
The President nominates justices when a vacancy occurs. The Senate Judiciary Committee holds hearings, then the full Senate votes to confirm. A simple majority (51 votes) is required.
Hearing Cases
The Court chooses which cases to hear through a process called "certiorari." Four of the nine justices must vote to hear a case. Oral arguments are typically 1 hour per case.
Precedent & Overturning
The Court generally follows its own prior decisions (stare decisis) but can overturn them. Notable overturnings include Brown v. Board and Dobbs v. Jackson.