Article III: The Judicial Branch

What is the topic of Article III?

The Judicial Branch.

What is the main function of the Judicial Branch?

To interpret laws.

What is the highest court in the United States?

The Supreme Court.

Which court is specifically mentioned in Article III?

The Supreme Court.

Who creates the lower federal courts?

Congress.

How many Supreme Court justices are there currently?

Nine.

Does the Constitution specify the number of Supreme Court justices?

No. Congress determines the number.

What qualifications does Article III list for Supreme Court justices?

None.

How long do federal judges serve?

During good behavior, effectively for life.

Who appoints Supreme Court justices?

The President.

Who approves Supreme Court justices?

The Senate.

How can a Supreme Court justice be removed?

Through impeachment by the House and conviction by the Senate.

What is judicial review?

The power of courts to determine whether laws or government actions violate the Constitution.

Which case established judicial review?

Marbury v. Madison (1803).

What does unconstitutional mean?

Contrary to or violating the Constitution.

What happens if the Supreme Court finds a law unconstitutional?

The law cannot be enforced as valid law.

Why do federal judges have lifetime appointments?

To protect judicial independence from political pressure.

What is judicial independence?

The ability of judges to make decisions without improper political influence.