But former justices have no such limitations, and newly retired Justice John Paul Stevens appears to be enjoying the freedom.

In a little-noticed speech delivered Oct. 7 and available on the Court’s web site Stevens offered some pointed criticism of Justice Antonin Scalia, while applauding Justice Anthony Kennedy for displaying “more civilized” views than he did 20 years ago. For good measure, Stevens praised Chief Justice John Roberts Jr.’s “thoughtful opinion” last term in Graham v. Florida.