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Supreme Court Justices’ Side Hustles: From Concert Perks to Book Deals

The Perks of Power: When Justices Cash In

Supreme Court justices wield immense influence—but their financial disclosures reveal a world far beyond their $300,000+ salaries. Recent reports show justices supplementing their income in ways that blur the line between public service and personal gain.

Concert Tickets, Private Shows, and VIP Perks

Justice Sonia Sotomayor accepted over $4,000 in concert tickets from a Puerto Rican record label linked to Bad Bunny during an August 2025 trip to the island. While the disclosures don’t specify which show she attended, the perk underscores how justices accumulate luxury experiences beyond their official duties.

Book Deals: The Legal Memoir Goldmine

Publishing pays—big. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson raked in $1.2 million in book advances, while Justice Amy Coney Barrett earned nearly $850,000 from her memoir. Even conservative stalwart Neil Gorsuch cashed in with a $300,000 children’s book on the Declaration of Independence.

The loophole? Book royalties aren’t counted as outside income, giving justices a financial incentive to write—without strict caps on earnings.

Jet-Set Justice: Travel Perks with a Purpose

Disclosures also highlight how justices mix official business with personal travel:

• Barrett jetted to London for a legal workshop.
• Gorsuch touched down in Prague for an educational program.

These details raise questions about transparency and potential conflicts when justices blend official duties with high-profile opportunities.

Where Do We Draw the Line?

As justices navigate the gray areas of ethics and enrichment, one thing is clear: their financial disclosures reveal a world where power and privilege often go hand in hand.