Final answer:
The Supreme Court uses the Rule of Four to decide which cases to hear. Factors that influence their decision include conflicts among lower courts and cases with special urgency.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Supreme Court exercises discretion in choosing which cases to hear. The Court follows the 'Rule of Four,' which means that four of the nine justices must vote to accept a case. Factors that may influence the Court's decision include conflicts among lower courts on an issue, conflicts between lower court decisions and precedent, and cases with special urgency.
Learn more about Supreme Court decision-making