Final answer:
The solicitor general is responsible for representing the federal government in appeals before the Supreme Court, influencing about two-thirds of the cases with their active participation in filing petitions, preparing briefs, and presenting oral arguments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The solicitor general handles all appeals on behalf of the federal government before the Supreme Court. This role is critical as the solicitor general determines which cases are appealed from the lower courts, with the majority of the cases they bring forward being placed on the docket. Representing about two-thirds of all Supreme Court cases, the federal government, through the solicitor general, has a significant impact on the legal landscape. Furthermore, the solicitor general not only files petitions and prepares briefs but also presents oral arguments in court. They may also participate as a third party in cases where the United States is neither the petitioner nor the respondent, and their recommendations carry weight, although not absolute, with the Supreme Court justices. The authority of the solicitor general is substantial and they are sometimes referred to as the "tenth justice" because of their influence. Finally, the solicitor general's involvement during oral arguments is pivotal; they are given the opportunity to argue the government's position when the United States is a party to the case, and they may also receive time to express the government's perspective on other disputes.