How many justices are there on the Supreme Court?

The Supreme Court of the United States is composed of nine justices. This structure was established by the Judiciary Act of 1869, which set the number of justices at nine. The number of justices can be changed by Congress, but it has remained at nine for over 150 years. The justices include one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices, who are appointed by the President and must be confirmed by the Senate. Each justice serves a lifetime appointment, contingent upon good behavior, which allows for continuity and stability in the interpretation of the Constitution and law. This setup is essential for maintaining an independent judiciary, which is a cornerstone of the U.S. democratic system.