Question

What is the composition of the Supreme Court of the United States of America?

Explain the composition of the Supreme Court of the United States.

State the composition of the apex judicial institution in the U.S.A.

Answer 1

The Supreme Court of the United States is the highest judicial authority in the federal court system. Its composition is as follows:

• Total Strength: The Supreme Court consists of 9 judges.
  • 1 Chief Justice
  • 8 Associate Justices
• Appointment: The judges are appointed by the President of the United States. Their appointments are subject to confirmation by the Senate.
• Tenure: The judges hold office for life, i.e., they serve during “good behavior.” They may be removed only by impeachment.
• Qualifications: The U.S. Constitution does not prescribe any formal qualifications such as age, education, or citizenship. However, in practice, appointees are experienced legal experts or judges.
• Jurisdiction and Authority: The Supreme Court has original and appellate jurisdiction, and it functions as the final interpreter of the Constitution. It also holds the power of judicial review over the acts of Congress and the executive.