The Supreme Court holds several exclusive powers that are crucial for maintaining the rule of law and ensuring justice. Here are some of the key exclusive powers of the Supreme Court:
- Judicial Review: The Supreme Court has the authority to review laws and executive actions to determine their constitutionality. This power allows the Court to strike down laws or actions that violate the Constitution.
- Final Appellate Jurisdiction: The Supreme Court is the highest court in the land, and its decisions are final. It has the ultimate authority to hear appeals from lower courts, ensuring a uniform interpretation of the law across the country.
- Original Jurisdiction in Certain Cases: The Supreme Court has original jurisdiction in cases involving disputes between states, or between a state and the federal government. This means these cases can be filed directly with the Supreme Court without going through lower courts.
- Interpretation of the Constitution: The Supreme Court has the exclusive power to interpret the Constitution. This includes clarifying the meaning of constitutional provisions and resolving disputes over constitutional issues.
- Supervision of Lower Courts: The Supreme Court has the authority to oversee the functioning of lower federal courts. This includes setting rules for judicial procedures and ensuring that lower courts adhere to legal standards.
These exclusive powers make the Supreme Court a vital institution in the U.S. legal system, ensuring that the principles of justice and constitutional governance are upheld.