What is the primary responsibility of the U.S. Supreme Court?

The primary responsibility of the U.S. Supreme Court centers on its role in interpreting the Constitution and federal law, especially in cases that have significant legal or constitutional implications. Original jurisdiction means that the Supreme Court has the authority to hear certain types of cases directly, rather than on appeal from lower courts. The Constitution grants the Supreme Court original jurisdiction in cases involving ambassadors, public ministers, and those in which a state is a party, which includes treason cases.

Treason, as defined in Article III of the Constitution, is a specific crime against the state, and the Supreme Court’s role in cases of treason highlights its function in upholding the highest law of the land. This jurisdiction ensures that when it comes to crimes that threaten the fabric of the nation, the most authoritative court is responsible for adjudicating such serious matters.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary role of the Supreme Court. Handling all federal offenses is primarily a responsibility of lower federal courts, issuing warrants is not within the Court's purview, and overseeing state law matters usually falls under the jurisdiction of state courts unless there is a federal question or constitutional issue at stake.