The Supreme Court consists of the chief justice of the United States and such number of associate justices as may be fixed by Congress. The number of associate justices is currently fixed at eight. Power to nominate the Justices is vested in the president of the United States, and appointments are made with the advice and consent of the Senate. The Constitution further provides that “the Judges, both of the supreme and inferior Courts, shall hold their Offices during good Behaviour, and shall, at stated Times, receive for their Services, a Compensation, which shall not be diminished during their Continuance in Office” (U.S. Const., art. III, § 1).

For this discussion, visit the official Web site of the Supreme Court of the United States. Choose one recent court decision from the past two years, and complete the following:

• Summarize the case and the final decision in 1–3 paragraphs.
• Discuss whether you think the current Supreme Court is conservative, liberal, or balanced. Use current Supreme Court decisions to argue your position.