How many justices serve on the Supreme Court?

The Supreme Court of the United States is composed of nine justices. This number has been standard since 1869. The justices include one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices, all of whom are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. The number of justices can be authorized by Congress, but it rarely changes; any significant alterations to this structure typically require substantial political consensus. Understanding the composition of the Supreme Court is crucial, as it influences how the laws of the nation are interpreted and applied, impacting a wide range of legal and constitutional issues.