How many justices serve on the Supreme Court?

The Supreme Court of the United States is made up of nine justices. This size has been established since 1869 and includes one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. The nine-member structure allows for a majority decision on cases, which is crucial for the functioning of the court as it deliberates on significant legal issues that can impact the interpretation of the Constitution and federal law. This composition has fostered diverse opinions and thoughts among justices, which enriches the decision-making process. Each justice serves a lifetime appointment, pending good behavior, emphasizing the independence of the judiciary from political influences.