<P> The votes of four Justices at Conference ( see Rule of four ) will suffice to grant certiorari and place the case on the court 's calendar . If the Supreme Court grants certiorari ( or the certified question or other extraordinary writ ) , then a briefing schedule is arranged for the parties to submit their briefs in favor of or against a particular form of relief . During this time , an individual or group having an interest in a case but not a party to the case may submit a motion to appear before the court as amicus curiae ( `` friend of the court '' ) . Except for certain specific categories ( such as lawyers for state and local governments ) or where all parties to the case consent , it is in the Court 's discretion whether such motions are granted . </P>
<P> The votes of four Justices at Conference ( see Rule of four ) will suffice to grant certiorari and place the case on the court 's calendar . If the Supreme Court grants certiorari ( or the certified question or other extraordinary writ ) , then a briefing schedule is arranged for the parties to submit their briefs in favor of or against a particular form of relief . During this time , an individual or group having an interest in a case but not a party to the case may submit a motion to appear before the court as amicus curiae ( `` friend of the court '' ) . Except for certain specific categories ( such as lawyers for state and local governments ) or where all parties to the case consent , it is in the Court 's discretion whether such motions are granted . </P>
how many justices must vote to hear a case before the supreme court hears the case
how many justices must vote to hear a case before the supreme court hears the case
four
four