Historical source: National Archives, Constitution of the United States: A Transcription. Original wording is distinguished from explanatory notes below.
Article III establishes the federal judiciary, including one Supreme Court and any lower federal courts Congress creates. It defines the reach of federal judicial power and sets constitutional rules for criminal trials and treason.
Original text — Section 1
The judicial Power of the United States, shall be vested in one supreme Court, and in such inferior Courts as the Congress may from time to time ordain and establish. The Judges, both of the supreme and inferior Courts, shall hold their Offices during good Behaviour, and shall, at stated Times, receive for their Services, a Compensation, which shall not be diminished during their Continuance in Office.
Read the complete original Article III
For the full original wording of all three sections, read the National Archives’ official Constitution transcription.
Amendments and historical provisions
The Eleventh Amendment altered the scope of federal judicial power over certain suits against states. The original language of Article III remains an essential historical reference, but must be read together with subsequent amendments.
Primary source: Read the Constitution at the National Archives.