Supreme Court Cases By Topic

Since its first decision in August 1791, the Supreme Court has heard and resolved thousands of cases spanning virtually every aspect of American life. The Court is not only the highest judicial authority in the United States but also the ultimate interpreter of the Constitution, the founding document of our democracy. Many of its decisions rest on constitutional principles, although the Court also has interpreted federal statutes, administrative regulations, treaties, and other sources of law in cases that may affect millions of people.

While each Supreme Court decision carries great weight, some decisions have resonated with particular force. Justia has selected landmark cases in the following areas: