The Supreme Court on Thursday released the briefing and argument schedule for the four cases on the validity of Texas’ 2003 congressional redistricting plan (dockets 05-204. 05-254, 05-276 and 05-439). The brief of the plan’s challengers is due Jan. 10, Texas’ response brief Feb. 1, and the challengers’ reply Feb. 22. The cases will be heard March 1. In noting jurisdiction on Monday, the Court allotted two hours for oral argument. The cases are on an expedited schedule.
Here is the text of the Court’s order:
“The opening briefs of appellants are to be filed with the Clerk and served upon opposing counsel on or before 3 p.m., Tuesday, January 10, 2006. The brief of appellees is to be filed with the Clerk and served upon opposing counsel on or before 3 p.m., Wednseday, February 1, 2006. Reply briefs of appellants, if any, are to be filed with the Clerk and served upon opposing counsel on or before 3 p.m., Wednesday, February 22, 2006. The cases are set for oral argument at 1 p.m., Wednesday, March 1, 2006.”