The U.S. Supreme Court- Blog Post #2

    

As a citizen of the United States, it is crucial to understand the significance of the Supreme Court. It is the highest court in the federal judiciary. In the Supreme Court, nine justices review petitions from lawyers, prisoners, and others, and all petitions are given equal consideration. Part I and Part II of the two videos I viewed gave me a thorough understanding of how it handles the most important cases in the country.

   

 While watching, I was amazed to learn that there are 7,000 cases per year. Newly arrived petitions are sent to the justices just once a week. Also, I learned that each justice is responsible for deciding each case with very little assistance at hand. A fun fact that I learned is that before every meeting, each justice shakes the other's hand, which shows professionalism between colleagues.  

 

      The biggest takeaway from this is how big of an impact the nine Supreme Court judges have on American's lives. Their role is crucial because American citizens look to them and trust them. The judges must be very precisely informed and engaged as to what is going on in the world as well as the particular case at hand. They are trusted with a lot of responsibility because of the power that they hold. As a citizen, we must take a careful look at how they act and respond because the result of their actions will affect our own lives and future. 

    

While engaging in these videos, I was shocked to find out that throughout the American history of the Supreme Court, since 1789, there have only been a little over a hundred justices. That number shocked me because I thought it would be way higher over all these years. Each serves an average of 16 years, which is a remarkable number. It is wonderful to see that the Supreme Court justices want to stay for a long time and are passionate about their role and this huge responsibility and challenge that they take on. 

      Having watched these videos, I am truly impressed by the intricate process and hard work that is involved in the functioning of the Supreme Court. I now hold the system in high regard and appreciate the benefits and dedication it offers to the American people. I have gained a new respect for our nine justices who guide our nation every year because it is not an easy task, and they have done a remarkable job.