Article III of the United States Constitution establishes the judicial branch as a separate, equal branch of the federal government. Known as the guardians of the Constitution, the federal courts are responsible for ensuring that everyone has equal access to the rights and responsibilities outlined in the Constitution. Fair and impartial judgments allow the federal courts to interpret and apply laws to resolve disputes fairly.
The Founding Fathers of the United States considered an independent federal judiciary important in ensuring fairness and equal justice for all citizens of the United States. Their vision for the nation promotes judicial independence in two major ways. First, federal judges are appointed for life, and Congress can remove them from office only through impeachment and conviction. Second, the Constitution provides that neither the President nor Congress can reduce the salary of a federal judge. These two protections help an independent judiciary to decide cases free from popular passions and political influence.
The Supreme Court of the United States of America is the highest court in the nation. It handles legal cases that affect the nation. Since 1790, when the Supreme Court of the United States was established, it has functioned as an importance force in American Law.
