The Supremes

The Supreme Court Justices, that is. Of the Supreme Court of Ohio.

I went to the Court today to listen to oral arguments for a couple of cases. The building--newly renovated, for those unfamiliar with the area--is really quite beautiful. The inside of the courtroom is impressive. However, the most lasting visual impression had nothing to do with the decor.

The Supreme Court here in Ohio has more female justices than male justices. There are 4 women and 3 men. That is a sight to behold. It is impressive to see.

But an even more lasting impression has to do with race. The 7 justices, sitting behind the bench at the front of the room, are all white. And seated one to each side of the bench are the 2 clerks (bailiffs?). Both of whom are black.

So the visual is the 7 white justices bookended by the 2 black clerks.

It made an impression.

We'll finish today with a few tips for you should you ever argue a case before The Supremes:

• Do not tell a justice that his/her question is "weird."
• Do not call the justices "judge." If you can't come up with their names in the heat of the moment, stick to "your honor."
• Don't argue. Yes, yes, it's called an oral argument. But don't actually be argumentative. Don't raise your voice to the Supreme Court Justices (state or federal!).
• Do not sigh so loudly in response to a question from a justice that you can be heard in the back of the room.
• When the justices start chatting and laughing amongst themselves, you need to perhaps bulk up your argument really quickly. Or just sit down.