The Judicial Branch of the United States government is responsible for explaining and applying laws. This is accomplished by hearing and deciding legal cases. Congress is in charge of establishing the Supreme Court, including deciding how many Justices make up that body. They also establish inferior courts as needed. Federal judges are appointed by the President for life and the Constitution stipulates that their compensation may not be reduced during their term in office.
Recommended Resources
The Chicago-Kent College of Law maintains this site, which consists of a database on all major constitutional cases which are heard by the Supreme Court and includes digital audio files of oral arguments and opinions delivered.
http://www.oyez.org/
Offers a primer on the United States Judicial branch, the Supreme Court, federal courts, and how they work. It addresses rules, policies, jurisdiction concerns, and administrative oversight and accountability.
http://www.uscourts.gov/FederalCourts/UnderstandingtheFederalCourts/FederalCourtsInAmericanGovernment.aspx
The official website of the United States Supreme Court provides details about the court rules and handling guides, the docket, briefs, and their opinions.
http://www.supremecourt.gov/
