The history of the Supreme Court goes back to 1789; the Government moved to Washington in 1801. The Supreme Court was then given temporary quarters in the unfinished capitol. During the years John Marshall was Chief Justice, the court asserted for the first time the greatest of all judicial powers, striking down an act of congress as unconstitutional. John Marshall was a promising lawyer from the state of Virginia. The court then earned respect from many of Americans.
While presidents have always attempted to shape the Court through their own nominations, justices have rarely hesitated to assert their independence. Once confirmed all Justices are primarily responsible to the law, to this institution, to your own conscience and public no longer has a direct ability to influence the decision through the ballot box .
Each year, the court receives thousands of written petitions, from prisoners to presidents seeking justice. Of approximately 7,000 cases received annually, only about 100 are selected for review by the nine justices of the court. Once a case is accepted, lawyers on each side have just 30 minutes to present their arguments, making rhetorical skill crucial.
The Court's composition tells a story of enduring service. In America's history, just over 100 justices have served, with each averaging 16 years on the bench. Though many remain twice that long. This longevity means justices often outlast the presidents who appointed them, creating an institution that transcends political cycles.
Opinion writers consume most of the Court's time, with any justice able to write separate opinions. This process of revision and writing can continue for months. culminating in decisions released by the term's end in late June, shaping American law for the next generations.
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