SCOTUS Term Begins   

The Supreme Court's new term is underway, and the Justices have already heard several significant cases. Last week, they considered Garland v. VanDerStok, which addresses the federal regulation of firearms that can be privately assembled from parts or 3D-printed—commonly known as "ghost guns." The Court also heard arguments in Glossip v. Oklahoma, a pivotal case concerning the death penalty. 

This week, the Justices tackled Bourfa v. Mayorkas, which focuses on immigration rights. To stay informed about the important cases we're tracking this term, be sure to check out our SCOTUS Term Preview.

As the Court resumes its work, it also grapples with ongoing ethical concerns regarding both the institution and individual Justices. Recently, Democratic Senator Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island released a report alleging that the Trump administration's FBI conducted a "flawed and incomplete" investigation into sexual misconduct allegations against Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh during his nomination process. These issues highlight the challenges the Court faces as it begins its new term. 

The Good News 

We were so excited to welcome nearly 150 guests to our Holding Court Supreme Court Term Preview event last week. The panel featured a distinguished group of experts who discussed key cases being tracked this term and their potential ramifications: 

A recording of the event will soon be available on AFJ's Holding Court landing page.

What’s Next? 

We have two exciting events coming up that you won’t want to miss! Join us on Tuesday, October 22, for a special Holding Court session featuring Renee Bracey Sherman, reproductive justice activist, founder and executive director of We Testify, and co-author of Liberating Abortion: Claiming Our History, Sharing Our Stories, and Building the Reproductive Future We Deserve. This virtual event promises to be an afternoon of powerful insights and discussion about the future of reproductive justice. Register to secure your spot!  

For those in the D.C. area, later that evening, we’re hosting a Justice Trivia Night on Tuesday, October 22, from 6:30–8:30 pm at Stoney’s on P Street NW. Test your knowledge of the courts, from the Supreme Court to pop culture legal trivia, all while enjoying free food and drinks! Whether you're a legal whiz or just looking for a fun night out with friends, register now and prove your trivia skills. 

We hope to see you at one (or both!) of these great events.  

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