The Nation's Court
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When people have big disagreements
disagreement
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a difference of opinion
(noun)
My brother and I are learning to settle our disagreements without fighting.
, they might need to go to court. Courts settle arguments. They make important decisions
decision
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a choice made after thinking about something
(noun)
Fiona came to a big decision: She would quit the soccer team and take ballet classes.
. In the United States, the top court is the Supreme Court. Let’s learn about it.
Welcome to the Supreme Court
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The Supreme Court is in Washington, D.C. That is our nation’s capital. The court was founded
found
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to create something, such as an institution or organization
(verb)
Our field trip to the animal shelter inspired me to found an animal-welfare club at school.
in 1789.
Group Portrait
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The Supreme Court is made up of nine judges. They are called justices. They are picked by the president. But the Senate must agree. Justices can serve for life.
A Look Inside
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The court settles disagreements. It hears about 80 cases each year. Its decisions affect the whole country. Here is what the courtroom looks like. Justices sit in a row at the front.
Legal Experts
expert
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a person who has special knowledge about a particular subject
(noun)
Shelby is a computer expert.
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Supreme Court justices are experts on the U.S. Constitution. That is the set of rules that say how our country should be run.
Did You Know?
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Justices have a uniform. It is a black robe. Some justices dress up their robes. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is known for her collars. Each has a special meaning for her.