By Jamie Neben

It seems like the first Monday in October was just yesterday, but now the U.S Supreme Court is wrapping up its current term.  The confirmation hearing of Justice Sotomayor is sure to keep the court—and the U.S. Constitution in the news during the summer.  But, looking back upon the last few months, we can see once again that the decisions in a case are much more far reaching than any of the nine individuals hearing it.

I urge everyone to review those decisions and contemplate the impact of them, if you have not already done so.  Some of the cases decided this past year concerned warrantless searches, voting rights, and DNA evidence.  Just in the last few days, we’ve received decisions about reverse discrimination and strip searches in school.

Make no mistake that the court makes policy with every case.  Not just for the few litigants presenting the arguments, but for all Americans.  Since we are inherently involved in each branch of government, and the system was created to serve us, shouldn’t we do our part to stay abreast of the manner in which our elected and appointed officials are serving?