Question

Explain the organisation of the US Supreme Court.

Answer 1

The organisation of the US Supreme Court is structured to serve as the apex judicial body in the federal system of the United States. Key features include:

1. Constitutional Foundation: Article III of the US Constitution establishes the Supreme Court and authorises Congress to create inferior courts. It states, “The judicial power of the United States shall be vested in one Supreme Court and in such inferior courts as the Congress may from time to time ordain and establish.”.
2. Composition: The Court currently consists of nine judges, one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. The number is not fixed by the Constitution but determined by Congress; the current size has remained unchanged since 1869.
3. Appointment and Tenure: Justices are appointed by the President of the United States, with the advice and consent of the Senate. Once appointed, they serve for life unless they resign, retire, or are removed through impeachment for misconduct.
4. Sittings and Terms: The Court typically sits from October to June/July each year in Washington, D.C., hearing and deciding on a range of critical constitutional and federal issues.
5. Clerks and Support Staff: Each justice is supported by a team of law clerks and administrative staff who assist in legal research, draughting opinions, and managing caseloads.