Before every judicial conference, what do the Supreme Court justices do?

Question

Here is the question : BEFORE EVERY JUDICIAL CONFERENCE, WHAT DO THE SUPREME COURT JUSTICES DO?

Option

Here is the option for the question :

• Shake hands
• Perform a chant
• Pray
• Bang gavels

The Answer:

And, the answer for the the question is :

Explanation:

The custom of a “judicial handshake” before the justices meet to take the bench each day and at the start of their private talks was established by Chief Justice Melville W. Fuller in the latter half of the 19th century. Every justice shakes hands with each of the other eight during each meeting to remind them that despite disagreements inside the court, there is still a general unity of purpose.

The Supreme Court of the United States is not only the highest court in the land but also a place where traditions and rituals hold significant importance. One such tradition takes place before every judicial conference—the justices of the Supreme Court engage in a symbolic act that fosters collegiality and respect: they shake hands. This seemingly simple gesture carries great meaning and serves as a reminder of the Court’s commitment to collaboration and the pursuit of justice.

The judicial conference is a gathering of all the justices of the Supreme Court, where they come together to discuss various matters related to the Court’s functioning, including the cases on the docket, legal issues, and administrative concerns. It is a time for the justices to exchange ideas, share perspectives, and engage in thoughtful deliberations.

Before the conference officially commences, the Supreme Court justices gather in a designated room or area. In this pre-conference setting, it is customary for the justices to engage in a handshake with one another. The act of shaking hands carries a symbolic weight, representing a gesture of goodwill, respect, and unity among the justices.

Shaking hands serves several purposes within the context of the Supreme Court. Firstly, it signifies a recognition of each justice’s presence and acknowledges their equal status within the Court. By shaking hands, the justices reinforce the notion that they are all part of a collective body responsible for upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice is served.

Additionally, the act of shaking hands before the conference fosters a sense of collegiality and camaraderie among the justices. The Supreme Court is composed of individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and legal philosophies. While they may hold differing views, the handshake serves as a reminder that they are members of the same institution, bound by a shared commitment to the principles of justice and the Constitution.

Furthermore, shaking hands before the judicial conference helps create an atmosphere of openness and collaboration. It signifies a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue, listen to opposing viewpoints, and work towards consensus. By physically connecting through a handshake, the justices establish a foundation of mutual respect and professionalism, essential elements for effective decision-making within the Court.

The handshake ritual also serves as a subtle indication of the Court’s independence from external influences. By coming together and greeting one another, the justices reaffirm their commitment to impartiality and the rule of law. It is a visible demonstration that the Court operates as a separate branch of government, unaffected by political pressures or personal biases.

It is important to note that the handshake tradition of the Supreme Court is not without controversy. In recent years, there have been discussions about the potential exclusionary nature of the practice. Some argue that the handshake tradition may inadvertently marginalize justices who may have physical limitations or cultural beliefs that discourage physical contact. As a result, alternative forms of greeting, such as nods or verbal acknowledgments, have been suggested to ensure inclusivity while still upholding the spirit of collegiality.

before every judicial conference, the Supreme Court justices engage in a handshake, a symbolic act that holds great significance. This tradition embodies the values of respect, unity, and collaboration within the Court. The handshake serves as a reminder of the justices’ commitment to the pursuit of justice, their equal status as members of the Court, and their dedication to the principles outlined in the Constitution. While the tradition has faced some scrutiny, it remains an important ritual that symbolizes the unique dynamics and traditions of the Supreme Court.