Supreme Court 2018–2019: A New Justice, A “Capital” Term, and Some Light on the “Shadow Docket”

Abstract

The 2018–2019 Supreme Court session included rulings on professional practice issues and social justice matters. No “blockbuster” decisions emerged. A large number of cases examined issues related to capital punishment, particularly around matters of competency. Challenges concerning jury selection and racial bias were addressed. Federal sex offender registration was upheld. Thirty-nine percent of cases were unanimous (down from the recent average), and 26% were decided by a 5-4 vote (up from the recent average).