How the Supreme Court Works

The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States. It has the final say on what the Constitution means and whether laws passed by Congress or actions taken by the President are legal. Here's how it works.

The Basics

The Court has nine justices — one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. They are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate. Once confirmed, justices serve for life (or until they choose to retire).

The Court's term runs from October through June or early July each year. This is called the "October Term." During this time, the justices hear oral arguments, discuss cases in private conferences, and issue written opinions.

How Cases Reach the Court

Most cases reach the Supreme Court through a process called "certiorari" (or "cert" for short). Thousands of people ask the Court to hear their case each year, but the justices only agree to take about 60-80 cases per term.

To take a case, at least four of the nine justices must vote to hear it. This is called the "Rule of Four." The Court typically takes cases that involve important constitutional questions, conflicts between lower courts, or issues of national importance.

How Decisions Are Made

After hearing oral arguments (where lawyers for each side present their case), the justices meet in a private conference to discuss and vote. The Chief Justice leads the discussion, and each justice shares their view in order of seniority.

If the Chief Justice is in the majority, they assign who writes the majority opinion. If not, the most senior justice in the majority assigns it. Justices who disagree can write dissenting opinions, and those who agree with the result but for different reasons can write concurring opinions.

Types of Opinions

• Majority Opinion: The official ruling of the Court, signed by five or more justices
• Concurring Opinion: A justice agrees with the result but wants to explain their own reasoning
• Dissenting Opinion: A justice disagrees with the majority and explains why
• Per Curiam: An unsigned opinion issued by the Court as a whole

Why It Matters

Supreme Court decisions affect every American. They determine your rights under the Constitution, set rules that lower courts must follow, and can only be changed by the Court itself or by a constitutional amendment. Understanding how the Court works helps you understand how your rights are defined and protected.