The Supreme Court program allows participants to experience the highest court in the United States from the perspectives of both justices who interpret laws and attorneys arguing before them. 

During the conference, delegates will be given the opportunity to act both as attorneys and Supreme Court associate justices. They will be called upon to interpret laws, argue for or against precedents, issue written opinions, and uphold the principles of justice established in federal law and the Constitution of the United States.

Because much of the work in the Supreme Court relies upon the use of more complicated legal documents, positions in this program are typically reserved for students in the eleventh or twelfth year of school, or returning HMCA participants.


How to prepare for the HMCA Supreme Court:

• Read the Guide to the Constitution for an overview of the US government. Also, skim the Guide to Federalism—concentrate on getting a broad understanding of how the government functions.
• Read through the Guide to the Supreme Court. We expect that you will have questions, so feel free to email Monika (mlezcko at fas.harvard.edu), the Harvard staff member who will be leading your committee, with any questions.
• Read through the assigned cases. The issues we will discuss are designed to be difficult and thought provoking, so if you have questions, email Moniko.
• Check out the links below to articles that relate to issues you’ll be discussing. Let Tyler know when you find something that’s interesting or confusing.