First Day in Supreme Court Conference

"At the end of the first week of the Supreme Court's new term, the justices assembled to discuss the week's cases, and, following protocol, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. stated his own views first. Then, in keeping with the court's tradition for the justices-only conference, the new chief called on the others, one by one.

"He did so in order of seniority, referring to his colleagues in the most formal terms. First, 'Justice Stevens,' followed by 'Justice O'Connor' and then 'Justice Scalia.'

"Justice Antonin Scalia interrupted. 'I will always call you Chief,' he said. 'But to you, I'm Nino, and this is Sandra, and this is John.'" ...