Behind the Curtain at the Supreme Court

The Supreme Court conducts its work largely out of public view, letting its opinions stand as one of the most visible markers of the justices’ rigorous debates on all aspects of American life.

The justices typically take the bench to announce their decisions after presiding over arguments that have touched on some of the thorniest topics in the country: guns, abortion and the scope of presidential power.

No cameras are allowed.

The New York Times received rare access to capture the courtroom during a momentous term.