How many justices are on the Supreme Court?

The Supreme Court of the United States consists of nine justices. This number has been established since 1869, and it includes one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. The configuration of nine justices is intended to allow for a majority decision in cases brought before the Court, ensuring that there is a clear resolution. Over the years, the number of justices has varied, but the decision to settle on nine has remained consistent for more than a century. This structure plays a crucial role in the judicial branch, as the Supreme Court is the highest court in the land, responsible for interpreting the Constitution and adjudicating significant legal disputes.