The Role of the Supreme Court: How Major Legal Decisions Are Made

The Supreme Court of the United States stands as the highest judicial authority, tasked with interpreting the Constitution and the laws of the country. Its decisions shape the legal landscape of the nation, influencing a variety of issues ranging from civil rights to social policies. Understanding the role of the Supreme Court is essential for grasping how major legal decisions are made and their lasting impact on American society.

1. The Structure and Function of the Supreme Court

The Supreme Court is composed of nine Justices, including one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. Appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, Justices serve lifetime terms, ensuring their autonomy from political pressure.

The primary function of the Court is to review cases, interpret laws, and ensure that federal laws and state actions adhere to the Constitution. The Supreme Court hears two types of cases:

• Original Jurisdiction: Cases that fall within the court’s authority from the Constitution, usually involving disputes between states or cases involving ambassadors.
• Appellate Jurisdiction: Most of the cases the Court hears fall into this category, where it reviews decisions made by lower courts.

By exercising judicial review, the Supreme Court has the power to invalidate laws and executive actions that it finds unconstitutional, serving as a crucial check on legislative and executive powers.

2. The Process of Deciding a Case

The process of how a case reaches the Supreme Court and how legal decisions are made involves several steps:

• Filing a Petition: Interested parties, often called petitioners, file a request for the Court to review their case through a document known as a petition for a writ of certiorari. This petition must demonstrate that the case involves significant legal questions or conflicts among lower courts.
• Granting Certiorari: If the Court agrees to hear the petition, it grants certiorari. This usually occurs for about 1% of petitions submitted, highlighting the Court’s selective process in addressing cases of national importance.
• Briefings: Both sides of the case submit written briefs outlining their arguments, legal precedents, and relevant laws. Amicus curiae (‘friend of the court’) briefs may also be submitted by third parties to provide additional perspectives.
• Oral Arguments: Justices listen to oral arguments where attorneys from both sides present their cases in person. This stage allows Justices to ask questions and seek clarifications on complex legal issues.
• Deliberation and Decision: After hearing the case, the Justices deliberate and work toward a decision. They consider each other’s views, legal statutes, precedents, and the Constitution. The opinion of the Court, which is the majority view, sets a binding precedent for future cases.
• Issuing Opinions: The Court issues written opinions, which can be majority opinions, concurring opinions, or dissenting opinions. Majority opinions act as legal precedents, while dissenting opinions can reflect differing viewpoints, which may influence future cases.

3. The Impact of Supreme Court Decisions

Supreme Court decisions have far-reaching implications, affecting legal principles and societal values. Landmark cases such as Brown v. Board of Education, Roe v. Wade, and Obergefell v. Hodges have not only shaped American law but also altered the course of societal norms and public policy.

For instance, Brown v. Board of Education in 1954 declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional, catalyzing the civil rights movement. Similarly, Roe v. Wade in 1973 established the right to abortion, creating significant legal debate and mobilizing political action across the United States.

The Court’s decisions also influence legislation and public policy, prompting Congress and state legislatures to respond either within the constraints set by the Court or by attempting to pass amending legislation.

4. The Role of Public Opinion and Political Influence

While the Supreme Court operates independently, it is not entirely insulated from public opinion or political influence. Justices often take the societal climate and public sentiment into account when making decisions, as they recognize the importance of legitimacy in the eyes of the public.

Moreover, the confirmation process for Justices can reflect political trends. Appointments are often heavily influenced by the prevailing political party in the White House and Senate, aiming to tilt the ideological balance of the Court.

Consequently, Justices may feel pressure to align their judgments with the expectations of those who appointed them or the prevailing public sentiments, impacting their decision-making processes and interpretations of the law.

5. Conclusion: The Supreme Court’s Enduring Legacy

The Supreme Court plays a pivotal role in defining the law in the United States, with its decisions resonating for generations. By interpreting the Constitution and adjudicating major legal questions, the Court has the power to shape societal values and government policies.

Understanding how major legal decisions are made within the Supreme Court framework is essential for anyone looking to engage with the legal system, advocate for change, or comprehend the evolution of rights in America. The Court’s enduring legacy continues to be a fundamental pillar of democracy, reflecting both the nation’s complexities and aspirations for justice and equality.