How many justices are on the Supreme Court?

The Supreme Court of the United States is comprised of nine justices. This number has been consistent since 1869 and was established to ensure a balance of opinions on the Court. Each justice serves a lifetime appointment, which allows them to interpret and apply the law without political pressure.

Having nine justices helps to facilitate the decision-making process since an odd number reduces the likelihood of tie votes. This structure supports a diverse range of legal interpretations and perspectives, promoting a more comprehensive evaluation of cases brought before the Court.

The other options, such as seven, eleven, and thirteen, do not reflect the current structure of the Supreme Court. Historically, there have been fluctuations in the number of justices in the Supreme Court, but the number has stabilized at nine since the late 19th century.