Welcome to Supreme Court Brief and the start of the October 2021 Term! Just days before opening day, the impact of the pandemic was felt again with news that Justice Brett Kavanaugh tested positive for COVID-19 even though fully vaccinated. But arguments will go on! We take a look at the lawyers arguing this week's five cases—a mix of veterans and newbies. Cooper & Kirk has sent two associates to clerk for justices this term. Plus: Look at the famous trio of lawyers who handled the 1895 Supreme Court case that the United States relies on in its suit against Texas and that state's abortion ban. 

Thanks for reading. Your feedback is welcome and appreciated. Contact Marcia Coyle at [email protected] and follow her on Twitter @MarciaCoyle.  

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Veteran Advocates & First-Timers Take to the Lectern

Eleven attorneys—four of whom are women—will put their best arguments before the justices in the first week of the new term. For five of the 11, their appearances will be their initial turn at the lectern in a courtroom that has been stripped of an audience because of the pandemic.