Supreme Court Opens Public Access Through Online Lottery as Standing-Line Tradition Ends

For those eager to witness historic arguments and rulings firsthand, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) has launched a pilot program that offers public seating through an online lottery system. This change ends what many consider a Washington, D.C., tradition: standing in line for hours to secure a spot in the courtroom.

“Bucket list item,” one social media user said when commenting on a post highlighting  people  waiting outside the SCOTUS building to hear the first day of the court’s argument on travel bans in 2018.

The court, widely viewed as the most conservative in modern history, is set to hear cases under the incoming administration that could have far-reaching effects. In addition to the traditional first-come, first-seated policy, the online lottery offers an additional method for the public to attend arguments.

During the pilot program, members of the public can apply for courtroom seating through the online lottery. 

“Individuals who receive tickets through the lottery will be able to come to the Court knowing that they have reserved seating for a particular argument or non-argument session,” according to the SCOTUS announcement on the new program. 

For those who prefer the traditional approach, a line still forms on East Capitol Street next to the Court building. The new system dissuades visitors from holding spaces for others not in the building, which begins seating at 9:30 a.m.

The Supreme Court Building will remain closed to the general public while the court is in session. Court police officers are available to answer questions and assist with the process.

With some cases expected to attract large crowds, officials said visitors should plan for lines to form before the building opens. They caution that delays can occur during security screening and seating. Officials added that all visitors must pass through a magnetometer, and an x-ray machine screens personal belongings. A list of prohibited items is available to ensure the safety of visitors and staff and to protect the court’s historic grounds.

Parents are advised against bringing infants or young children into the courtroom, as proceedings require strict decorum.

After the morning session concludes, all visitors must leave the courtroom and the Great Hall. Those who wish to attend an afternoon argument must line up again in front of the building.