How many justices are on the Supreme Court?

The Supreme Court of the United States is composed of nine justices. This includes one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. The number of justices has been set at nine since 1869 and is established by Congress. The Supreme Court serves as the highest court in the federal judiciary and its decisions set important precedents for the interpretation of laws and the Constitution.

This structure is essential for maintaining balance and ensuring that a diverse range of viewpoints is represented in the Court's decisions. Each justice is appointed for life, which allows them to make independent judgments without the pressures of re-election. Understanding the composition of the Supreme Court is a key aspect of understanding the judicial branch of the government and its role in upholding the rule of law.