New Directions for a New Supreme Court?

The departures of Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist and Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, and President Bush’s successful nominations of John G. Roberts, Jr. and Samuel A. Alito, Jr. to replace them, have focused America’s attention on the role and impact of the nation’s highest court. Professor Choper will investigate whether the Roberts Court will be more “liberal” or “conservative” than it’s predecessor and what those terms really mean in respect to the Supreme Court. Professor Silverstein will discuss how these changes are likely to affect our lives and our law in areas ranging from abortion and property rights to war powers, federalism, and political participation.