How many justices are on the Supreme Court?

The Supreme Court of the United States consists of nine justices. This number has been set since 1869 and includes one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. The structure of the Supreme Court is essential for maintaining a balance of power within the judicial branch of the government, allowing for diverse opinions and thorough deliberation on the cases that come before it. Having nine justices helps to avoid tie votes, as an odd number allows for a conclusive decision in cases brought before the court. Additionally, this number reflects a historical compromise to meet the needs of a growing nation, ensuring that various viewpoints can be heard while also maintaining efficiency in decision-making.