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What court declares the final word on the constitutionality of a state law?
The [State] Supreme Court (or its equivalent) has final authority unless the question being addressed in the state constitution conflicts with the US Constitution, in which case the US Supreme Court has final authority.
Who has the final authority to interpret the US Constitution?
The Judicial Branch of government is vested with the authority to interpret the Constitution and ensure that laws adhere to the spirit and letter of the Constitution. It is also responsible for determining how a laws are interpreted and applied.As the highest court in the nation, the US Supreme Courtis the ultimate authority on the interpretation of laws and the Constitution.However, through the system of checks and balances, the Supreme Court does not have the final say on what the Constitution is. The Congress, with the several States, has the authority to amend (change) the Constitution, thus potentially overturning a Supreme Court decision. This is a difficult and time-consuming thing to accomplish and so is not often done.
Are state supreme court judges more powerful than US Supreme Court Justices?
No, the state supreme courts only interpret policy for legislation or the constitution specific to the state over which it presides. The state supreme court is the final arbiter on those issues. On questions of Federal and constitutional law, the Supreme Court of the United States holds more authority.
If the US Supreme Court denies your case is there another court to appeal to?
No. The US Supreme Court is the final court of appeal; if they deny your case, the decision of the lower court stands. There is no other avenue of appeal.
What happens when the US Supreme Court agrees with the lower court ruling?
If the US Supreme Court agrees with the lower court ruling, the decision is "affirmed," and becomes legally final (res judicata).
