SCOTUS Today for Tuesday, November 18

On November 18, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) continues to engage with pressing legal issues, reflecting its pivotal role in shaping American law. With a history steeped in significant rulings and evolving jurisprudence, the court’s decisions resonate far beyond the courtroom. This day marks not only the ongoing work of the justices but also commemorates the legacy of those who have served, such as Joseph Story, who was confirmed to the court at the young age of 32 in 1811, a record that still stands. Historical Context and Clerkship Evolution Understanding the … Read more

Court Denies Appeal on Prison Construction and School Prayer Cases

On a recent Monday, the Supreme Court made a significant ruling regarding the obligations of local governments in prison construction and the contentious issue of school prayer. The court’s decision came in the wake of an appeal from the sheriff of New Orleans, who sought to challenge the city’s responsibility to construct a new facility for inmates with mental health issues. This case has been ongoing for over a decade, stemming from claims by inmates that the existing facilities violated constitutional standards by failing to adequately address their mental health needs. Background of the Case … Read more

Supreme Court Temporarily Pauses Ruling on November SNAP Payments

On November 7, 2023, the Trump administration sought intervention from the Supreme Court regarding a ruling from a federal judge in Rhode Island. The ruling mandated that the government disburse $4 billion to fully fund the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) for the month of November. This unprecedented order raised significant concerns about the separation of powers, as articulated by U.S. Solicitor General D. John Sauer. Background of the SNAP Funding Crisis The Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, commonly referred to as SNAP, is a crucial federal initiative designed to provide food assistance to low-income individuals … Read more

Cybersecurity Measures Strengthened in Light of Attacks on Judiciary’s Case Management System

In response to a series of sophisticated cyberattacks targeting its case management system, the federal Judiciary has initiated enhanced cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive case documents. These escalated attacks have prompted the Judiciary to not only fortify the security of its existing systems but also to work closely with various governmental partners to mitigate the impact on litigants and maintain the integrity of the judicial process. The proactive steps being taken are essential to ensure that the Judiciary can continue to operate effectively in an increasingly digital landscape. Strengthening Cybersecurity Protocols The Administrative Office of … Read more