How to Be a Supreme Court Justice
Being a Supreme Court Justice is no easy task. The United States Supreme Court consists of only one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. Supreme Court Justices undergo a rigorous nomination process and are appointed for life. If you still dream of wearing the robes and deciding landmark cases, here are some tips to help you on your path to becoming a Supreme Court Justice.
- Difficulty:
- Challenging
Instructions
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Go to law school. In theory, anyone can be a Supreme Court Justice. However, in practice, the distinction has been reserved for lawyers. Doing well in law school, passing the bar exam and developing a law practice will therefore help you on your way to becoming a Supreme Court Justice.
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Understand the role of the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the land. Its function is to review decisions of the lower courts that involve interpretation of the Constitution, federal law, or treaties.
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Become a federal judge. Almost all Supreme Court nominees have been judges on the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals. This is a group of regional courts that governs appeals of district court decisions. Federal Appeals Courts work on cases that can later be appealed to the Supreme Court.
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Be political. Supreme Court justices are nominated by sitting presidents, usually because they are thought to be representative of a certain political party's values. Participating in politics will help in becoming a Supreme Court Justice.
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Ace the confirmation hearings. Once the president nominates someone, the Senate holds hearings. The purpose of the hearings is for the senators to interview the nominee regarding his record as a judge and lawyer, and inquire as to where she stands on key issues.
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Tips & Warnings
Try to avoid scandals or indiscretions. If you have any skeletons in the closet, they are likely to come out in the Senate hearings and be televised to the world.
