The ultimate interpreter of American law and the American Constitution itself is the United States Supreme Court. Nearly 220 years old, the Court has grown dramatically in stature and authority. Its authority to invalidate as unconstitutional actions of the legislative and executive branches now is long settled. Americans may disagree with the Court's decisions, but defying the Court is simply beyond the bounds of political, even social, legitimacy.
We present a collection of essays in this journal that explain how the Court functions. They also illustrate how it commands the respect of Americans and plays a vital role in the constitutional system.
Hon. William H. Rehnquist, Chief Justice of the United States
The Supreme Court has assumed a leading role in ensuring the rule of law in the United States.
The Constitutional provisions establishing the Supreme Court afford it the adaptability required to address contemporary issues, controversies, and needs.
The appointment of a Supreme Court justice involves legal, political, and personal considerations, but the typical result is an independent-minded justice.
The Supreme Court chooses most of its docket by means of the writ of certiorari; Americans from all walks of life can petition the Court for such a writ.
Personal accounts by four Court officers who help the justices do their jobs: the Clerk of the Court, the Court Marshal, the Reporter of Decisions, and the Public Information Officer.
The legendary civil rights advocate recounts his experience arguing the landmark Brown v. Board of Education litigation before the Supreme Court.
Capsule summaries of some of the Court's most memorable and significant cases:
Marbury V. Madison (1803)
Gibbons V. Ogden (1824)
National Labor Relations Board V. Jones & Laughlin Steel Corp. (1937)
Brown V. Board Of Education (1954)
Gideon V. Wainwright (1963)
Miranda V. Arizona (1966)
New York Times Co. V. Sullivan (1964)
Meet the nine members of the U.S. Supreme Court in 2005
For audio of arguments before the Supreme Court, visit "Oyez: U.S. Supreme Court Multimedia."
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