The Supreme Court

The justices of the Supreme Court sit atop one of the three branches of the federal government. They head an important policymaking institution. The Supreme Court acts as an agent of the national government in interpreting, applying, and creating rules for the country that, as seen in our other cases, can range from abortion to affirmative action. At times the Court resolves disputes between groups, or states, or even between the other branches of government. In its rulings, the Court may act to secure its own powers and the respect owed to the judicial branch. By interpreting and enforcing the law in this historic case, these nine policymakers became referees for the political system they help govern.