If anyone knows: Is the Chief Justice allowed to consult with his clerks during this trial?

[Mike 03]

The book "The Brethren" by Bob Woodward and Scott Armstrong emphasizes the influential, sometimes crucial role that Supreme Court clerks play in the decision-making of the justices. Will CJ Roberts' clerks be permitted to play any role here?

[maxsolomon]

1. Permitted by whom?

Roberts can define the role.

[Mike 03]

2. Sounds good.

Just worried about "rules" I don't know about.

[MineralMan]

3. I doubt that will be necessary, really.

Depending on how much Chief Justice Roberts decides to do during the trial, the questions that arise will probably be pretty easy to decide. If I remember correctly, during the Clinton trial, there were a number of questions for the parliamentarian, though.

[Mike 03]

4. Thanks

[unblock]

5. if a judge wants to pause a trial to consult the books in their chambers,

or to consult their clerks, or their hamsters for that matter, they certainly can do that.

i think the senate parliamentarian is more likely to be involved in any such pause, but it certainly could happen.

[Mike 03]

7. I appreciate it.

[Brother Buzz]

6. During Clinton's trial, William Rehnquist was all over the place asking....

asking everyone bombastic questions; I don't think he ever figured out the intricacies of the Senate rules. I see no problem with a clerk advising Roberts, but I suspect the senate rules are all that are germane.

[Mike 03]

8. Thanks

I hope he gets to make some legal decisions or judgment calls here. Maybe that's hoping for too much.

[Brother Buzz]

9. Senate game, Senate rules...

Roberts' role, as I see it, is essentially a playground monitor.