Ubiq -“you can’t have a “proceeding before a judge” if there are only judges.”
They do this all the time.
People make motions and later on the Judge reads them and decides the next step.
It’s happened to me dozens of times.
It’s obvious that you never had a Court case!
“This is EXACTLY what happens. (there is no court case, there are no hearings) they read the motions and make decisions”
You have to read the legal definition. This is called a hearing. Yes, when e/o is present it’s also called a hearing.
“you called me a liar for my correct prediction”
I called you a Liar, because at that time no one could know for sure what will happen, ie it’s possible there are exceptions in this case Not to declare that it is Moot!
“At conference could they provide a ruling on the actual case. IE overrule or uphold the lower courts decision or are there limits on their “judgement” ?”
Technically they could, but they have their Rules – one day for conference, and one day for arguments.