Laura Beth Waller, NOSSCR Chief Strategy Officer and Deputy General Counsel

On June 18, fourteen NOSSCR members achieved a significant milestone, joining the Bar of the Supreme Court of the United States. You certainly know what the outside of the Court looks like, but inside the building is spectacular.

Once inside, hushed marbled halls stretch before you. Those halls lead you to the courtroom, featuring towering 44-foot ceilings, lofted by ornate Corinthian columns. Inside the courtroom, the focus is absolute; no cell phones, cameras, or electronics are permitted. Personal belongings, save for a blank notepad and pen, are securely stored in lockers.

Our day began early, gathering outside the Court at 7:15 AM in the humid morning air. Following a swift security screening, we deposited our items and reconvened in the Lawyers’ Lounge for coffee. With members joining us from the bars California, Florida, Massachusetts, Missouri, North Carolina, New York, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, and Texas, we connected over our shared calling to Social Security disability law.

Soon after, we were escorted into the courtroom. Though the room was full, with most of the 250 seats–tiny wooden chairs, and long, upholstered pews–occupied, those inside were silent. With NOSSCR member guests seated on the sides and the new admittees positioned in front, a buzzer signaled the arrival of the Justices. It was an immense honor to witness them take the bench and hear the announcement of several opinions, including the significant Skrmetti case, where the Supreme Court upheld the Sixth Circuit’s ruling that a Tennessee law banning gender-affirming care for minors does not violate the Equal Protection Clause. Justice Sotomayor’s dissent was particularly pointed and moving.

With NOSSCR CEO David Camp proudly serving as the movant, our colleagues, accompanied by a spouse, parent, child, or family friend who bore witness, stood before the nine Justices and swore the solemn oath to uphold the law, marking their official admission to the Bar of the highest court in the land.

It was a true honor to be present and celebrate the dedication and achievements of our NOSSCR colleagues. I look forward to coordinating another ceremony in the near future!