What kind of cases go before the supreme court

the justices vote what cases they will make decisions on at the beginning of their yearly judicial session.. most appellate cases have been through the local, state, and district courts for many years before it reaches them. deciding which cases will be heard is based on many things including political winds, length of time similar cases were last before them, and their personal agenda.  

they are important because their decisions are the law overriding all other courts and laws. with our checks and balance system. any law passed by any one of the three branches of our government may be vetoed. this rarely happens as simple majority vote no longer applies. 2/3 majority is needed. of course the legislative and executive branches can work to pass laws that blocks or skirts the judicial branches rulings.  

as justices are appointed to life terms they are not affected by political and social trends. lawmakers and politicians must (should) be elected every 2-6 years.

hope this .