How many justices are there on the Supreme Court?

The Supreme Court of the United States is composed of nine justices. This structure allows for a balance in decision-making, as having an odd number of justices helps avoid tie votes on cases that come before the court. The number of justices has been set at nine since 1869 and includes one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. This composition is essential for maintaining the integrity of judicial review and the application of the law at the highest level. Understanding the number of justices is crucial for comprehending how the Supreme Court functions and influences the American legal system.