What distinguishes the U. S. Supreme Court from a state supreme court? State supreme courts have rulings that can be overturned, while U. S. Supreme Court rulings are final. State supreme courts have limited jurisdiction on the types of cases they can rule on, while the jurisdiction of the U. S. Supreme Court is unlimited. State supreme courts cannot rule on cases involving personal rights, while the U. S. supreme court can. The U. S. Supreme Court must hear all appeals cases, while state supreme courts choose the cases they hear.