What constitutes a substantial federal question for Supreme Court review?

A substantial federal question for Supreme Court review typically arises from questions related to the U.S. Constitution, federal laws, or treaties. When the Supreme Court decides to hear a case, it often looks to see whether the case involves significant issues of federal law or constitutional interpretation that warrant its attention.

In this context, a question related to the U.S. Constitution is crucial because it has national significance and implications for federal law or fundamental rights. This can include issues such as the interpretation of constitutional rights, powers of the federal government, or challenges to federal statutes.

Questions derived solely from state law or specific state verdicts do not usually qualify as substantial federal questions for Supreme Court review. These types of questions can be important within the jurisdiction of state courts, but they do not often require the Supreme Court's attention unless a significant federal issue is intertwined. Similarly, a mere disagreement with a state decision—without involving a federal question—does not typically rise to the level necessary for the Supreme Court's review, as these issues belong more clearly to state jurisprudence.