When can US Supreme Court justices question lawyers?

Answer 1

The US Supreme Court justices question the attorneys representing the parties to a case during oral arguments. Each attorney has 30 minutes to present his or her reason the justices should find in favor of his client, as well as clarify points and answer any questions the justices raise. The justices are usually better prepared and know more about the case, precedents and applicable law than the attorneys, and often grill them.

Oral arguments occur after all parties have submitted their briefs and the justices read the briefs and relevant case law, but before they vote on the case.

For more information, see Related Questions, below.