The role of the clerk and deputies or assistants should not be confused with the court's law clerks, who assist the justices by conducting research, making recommendations on which cases to hear, and preparing drafts of opinions.
The Clerk's Office is responsible for maintaining the dockets and records of the court.
Traditionally unlike others, the clerk and deputies wear morning coats when performing their duties as the court is in session.
[4] One of the traditional duties of the clerk was holding the Bible at presidential inaugurations.
James R. Browning became the last clerk to perform this duty at John F. Kennedy's inauguration on January 20, 1961.