How many justices are on the Supreme Court?

The Supreme Court of the United States is comprised of nine justices. This number has been established by law since 1869, and it includes one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the federal judiciary and has the authority to interpret the Constitution, adjudicate legal disputes, and ensure justice across the nation.

Having nine justices allows for a balanced deliberation of cases, minimizing the potential for tie votes and ensuring that decisions reflect a majority consensus. This composition plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability and functionality of the judicial system in the U.S. By having an odd number of justices, the Court can effectively resolve cases and provide authoritative judgments on important legal issues.