The Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority in the United States, established by the Constitution, responsible for interpreting laws and ensuring justice. It serves as a check on the other branches of government, influencing policy and protecting individual rights through its rulings.
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The Supreme Court consists of nine justices who are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate, serving lifetime appointments unless they resign or are removed.
It has original jurisdiction in certain cases, such as those involving ambassadors and states, but primarily functions as an appellate court reviewing decisions from lower courts.
Landmark cases decided by the Supreme Court, such as Marbury v. Madison and Brown v. Board of Education, have significantly shaped American law and society.
The Court's decisions can only be overturned by constitutional amendments or new rulings from future Courts, underscoring its powerful role in shaping law.
The ideological leanings of the justices can impact rulings, leading to shifts in legal interpretations and policies over time.
Review Questions
How does the Supreme Court exercise its power of judicial review, and what are some notable examples of its impact on American law?
The Supreme Court exercises its power of judicial review by evaluating the constitutionality of laws and executive actions. Notable examples include Marbury v. Madison, which established the principle of judicial review itself, and Roe v. Wade, which addressed women's rights to privacy in reproductive choices. These cases illustrate how the Court influences American law and protects individual rights through its interpretations.
Analyze how the Supreme Court acts as a check on the legislative and executive branches of government.
The Supreme Court acts as a critical check on both the legislative and executive branches by ensuring that their actions adhere to the Constitution. For instance, if Congress passes a law that infringes upon constitutional rights, the Court can strike it down. Similarly, if a president exceeds their authority or violates constitutional principles, the Court has the power to limit that executive action. This system maintains a balance of power among branches.
Evaluate how changes in Supreme Court ideology can influence public policy and civil rights in the United States.
Changes in Supreme Court ideology can have profound effects on public policy and civil rights by altering how laws are interpreted. For example, a shift toward a more conservative bench may lead to restrictions on abortion rights or affirmative action policies, while a liberal bench might expand protections for LGBTQ+ rights or voting access. This dynamic reflects how judicial philosophy directly impacts societal norms and governmental policies over time.
The power of the Supreme Court to review laws and executive actions to determine their constitutionality.
Constitutional Interpretation: The process by which the Supreme Court interprets the meaning of the Constitution and its amendments.
Amicus Curiae: A legal term meaning 'friend of the court,' referring to individuals or organizations that provide information or expertise in court cases to assist the justices.