Table of Contents
What is the phrase engraved on the Supreme Court Building?
Equal Justice Under Law
An architrave above the 16 marble columns at the front entrance, on which is inscribed the famous phrase “Equal Justice Under Law.”
What is one example of symbolism used in the Supreme Court Building?
The Book of Judgment or Law Books appear as a symbol in the detail of the Supreme Court Building, representing learning, written knowledge, and judgment. In a few instances, the Latin word “LEX” (law) is carved into the book, making the symbol for a “law book.”
What does Lady Justice’s blindfold represent?
Lady Justice is blindfolded. A court of law commences a trial of a dispute with no prior knowledge of it and complete impartiality, hence the blindfold over Lady Justice’s eyes. This is designed to symbolise that justice should be rendered “without passion or prejudice” to ensure a result which is fair.
What symbol represents the US court system?
The single star that appears beneath the eagle on the seal is the only difference between the Supreme Court Seal and the Great Seal of the United States. The star represents the “one Supreme Court” established by the U.S. Constitution. Since ancient times, the eagle has been a symbol of power and victory.
Where did gavels come from?
In Medieval England, the word gavel could refer to a tribute or rent payment made with something other than cash. These agreements were set in English land-court with the sound of a gavel, a word which may come from the Old English: gafol (meaning “tribute”).
Who writes the writ of certiorari?
A case cannot, as a matter of right, be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court. As such, a party seeking to appeal to the Supreme Court from a lower court decision must file a writ of certiorari. In the Supreme Court, if four Justices agree to review the case, then the Court will hear the case.
What does the sword on Lady Justice mean?
Lady Justice holds scales to represent the impartiality of the court’s decisions and a sword as a symbol of the power of justice.