How does the Supreme Court decide cases?
Once the Supreme Court accepts a case, the lawyers give the Court a written copy of the trial court proceedings, called the “record on appeal.” Then they write lengthy, detailed documents – ironically called “briefs” – arguing their points and providing legal support for them. Next, the attorneys typically argue the merits of their cases orally before the Supreme Court (which the public is welcome to attend). The Court considers these briefs and arguments in researching and deciding the cases.
