Supreme Court Basics
Where does the court's power come from?
The US Constitution.
Who chooses Supreme Court justices?
The president, with the advice and consent of the Senate.
Does the court HAVE to hear all cases? Yes, or No?
NO
Brown vs. Board of Education
segregation in schools
The power of the court to oversee the other branches of government.
Judicial Review.
What qualifications do you need to be nominated to the court?
There are no qualifications. Anybody can be nominated, you don't even have to be a citzen.
How does the court decide which cases to hear?
4 of 9 Justices have to agree to hear a case for it to proceed.
Roe vs. Wade
Abortion
What part of Congress has the power to establish courts?
How many justices serve on the court?
Nine.
What types of cases does the court hear?
The court hears cases involving:
Statutory law
Public or constitutional law
Administrative law
self-incrimination
What does the Court do?
Hears appeals from Federal courts, settles arguments between states, interprets the Constitution.
How long do justices serve on the court?
They serve for life.
Why are therer an odd number of justices?
To avoid a tie.
Citizens United vs. Federal Election Commission.
Election spending by corporations.
Where is the court located?
Washington DC.
What is the title of the leader of the court?
Chief Justice.
How many justices are required by the constitution?
There is no limit to the court's size.
Bush vs. Gore
2000 election