BTS | Judicial

Judicial

The judicial branch hears cases that challenge or require interpretation of the legislation passed by Congress and signed by the President. It consists of the U.S. Supreme Court and the lower federal courts. Courts decide arguments about the meaning of laws, how they are applied, and whether they violate the Constitution. Appointees to the federal bench serve for life or until they voluntarily resign or retire. The Supreme Court is the most visible of the federal courts. The number of Justices is determined by Congress and since 1869, the Court has been composed of the Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. Justices are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate.

Supreme Court of the United States
U.S. Judicial Circuit Courts of Appeal, by Geographic Location and Circuit
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit
U.S. Court of Federal Claims
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces
U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims
U.S. Tax Court
U.S. Court of International Trade
The U.S Federal Courts: The Federal Judiciary homepage from the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts
U.S. Sentencing Commission
Federal Judicial Center
U.S. Code
Online Opinions and Court Records
State Court Web Sites