1. Judicial Branch Interprets the Laws

2. The Basics Judicial Branch=Supreme & inferior courts Supreme Court interprets the laws 1 Chief Justice & 8 Associate Justices on Supreme Court (9 total) Supreme Court Justices appointed for life Beneath the Supreme Court are the U.S. Court of Appeals and District Courts

3. Supreme Court Requirements None Must be appointed by the President and approved (confirmed) by the Senate

4. Structure Supreme Court 9 Justices Circuit Courts 12 Circuits Across the Country District Courts 94 Districts Across the Country

5. Checks & Balances Can declare laws unconstitutional Can declare presidential acts unconstitutional

6. Rulings The Supreme Court selects cases that involve: Issues related to the Constitution Issues between states or between states and the federal government Precedent-rule of law When the Supreme Court makes a ruling, that ruling becomes the new precedent or rule of law— all lower courts must follow their interpretation