How many justices serve on the US Supreme Court?

The United States Supreme Court is composed of nine justices, which includes one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. This composition has been in place since the Judiciary Act of 1869, which set the number of justices to nine. The structure and size of the Court were established to ensure a balance of opinions and perspectives among the justices and to facilitate the deliberate process of adjudication. A nine-member court allows for a definitive majority in decision-making, helping to avoid ties in rulings. The court's role is crucial in interpreting the Constitution and federal laws, thereby impacting various aspects of American life and governance.