31 Facts About The Supreme Court

The Origins of the Supreme Court

The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) stands as the highest judicial authority in the country. Its history is rich and full of fascinating details.

1. Established in 1789, the Supreme Court was created by Article III of the U.S. Constitution.
2. The Judiciary Act of 1789 set the number of justices at six, including one Chief Justice and five Associate Justices.
3. The first session of the Supreme Court was held on February 1, 1790, in New York City.
4. John Jay was the first Chief Justice of the United States, serving from 1789 to 1795.

The Role and Function of the Supreme Court

The Supreme Court plays a crucial role in interpreting the Constitution and ensuring justice.

5. The Supreme Court has the power of judicial review, which allows it to declare laws unconstitutional.
6. It hears cases on appeal from lower federal courts and state supreme courts.
7. The Court's decisions are final and binding on all lower courts.
8. Each year, the Supreme Court receives about 7,000-8,000 petitions for certiorari but hears only about 80 cases.

The Justices of the Supreme Court

The justices who serve on the Supreme Court are influential figures in American law and politics.

9. Justices are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate.
10. Once appointed, justices serve for life, unless they resign, retire, or are impeached.
11. The current number of justices is nine, a number that has been in place since 1869.
12. The longest-serving justice was William O. Douglas, who served for 36 years from 1939 to 1975.

Landmark Supreme Court Cases

The Supreme Court has made numerous landmark decisions that have shaped American society.

13. Marbury v. Madison (1803) established the principle of judicial review.
14. Brown v. Board of Education (1954) declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional.
15. Roe v. Wade (1973) recognized a woman's right to choose an abortion.
16. Obergefell v. Hodges (2015) legalized same-sex marriage nationwide.

The Supreme Court Building

The Supreme Court building itself is a symbol of justice and authority.

17. The Supreme Court building is located in Washington, D.C., across from the Capitol.
18. Completed in 1935, the building was designed by architect Cass Gilbert.
19. The words "Equal Justice Under Law" are inscribed above the entrance.
20. The building features a grand marble staircase and a large courtroom where oral arguments are heard.

The Process of Supreme Court Decisions

The process by which the Supreme Court reaches its decisions is meticulous and thorough.

21. Cases are first reviewed by the justices in private conferences.
22. Oral arguments are presented by attorneys for each side, typically lasting one hour per case.
23. Justices then meet in private to discuss the case and cast their votes.
24. The majority opinion, which becomes the Court's official decision, is written by one of the justices in the majority.

The Impact of Supreme Court Decisions

The decisions made by the Supreme Court have far-reaching consequences.

25. Supreme Court rulings can overturn previous decisions and set new legal precedents.
26. These decisions can influence public policy and societal norms.
27. The Court's interpretations of the Constitution can affect the balance of power between the federal government and the states.
28. Supreme Court decisions often spark public debate and can lead to changes in laws and regulations.

The Diversity of the Supreme Court

The composition of the Supreme Court has evolved over time to reflect the diversity of the nation.

29. Thurgood Marshall was the first African American justice, appointed in 1967.
30. Sandra Day O'Connor became the first female justice in 1981.
31. Sonia Sotomayor, appointed in 2009, is the first Latina justice.

The Final Verdict

The Supreme Court stands as a pillar of justice, shaping the nation's laws and ensuring fairness. From its humble beginnings in 1789 to its current role, the Court has been pivotal in landmark decisions like Brown v. Board of Education and Roe v. Wade. With nine justices, each bringing unique perspectives, the Court's decisions impact every American's life. Its history is rich with fascinating facts, like the first female justice, Sandra Day O'Connor, and the youngest justice, Joseph Story, appointed at 32. The Court's traditions, such as the justices' conference handshake, highlight its commitment to unity and respect. Understanding these facts not only deepens our appreciation for the Court but also underscores its importance in our democracy. So next time you hear about a Supreme Court case, you'll know just how significant those decisions are.