Which court serves as the federal court of last resort in the United States?

The U.S. Supreme Court serves as the federal court of last resort in the United States because it holds the highest authority in interpreting federal law and the Constitution. Decisions made by the Supreme Court are final and can only be overturned by a subsequent ruling of the Court itself or by a constitutional amendment. All lower courts, including federal district courts and courts of appeals, are bound by the interpretations and rulings set forth by the Supreme Court. This hierarchical structure underscores the crucial role the Supreme Court plays in the American judicial system, providing consistent legal interpretations and resolving disputes that have significant implications for law and society as a whole.

In this context, circuit courts and federal district courts operate at lower levels within the federal judicial system, addressing a range of cases but not serving as the ultimate authority on legal matters. The U.S. Court of Appeals reviews decisions made by federal district courts but does not have the same level of finality as the Supreme Court.