gentlemen, but you are getting your -- handed to you for your sins. >> reporter: lines snaked around the marbled walls of the high court. inside, members of the church led by pastor phelps said they have a first amendment right to demonstrate against troops they say died to protect abortion and gay rights. >> every death is at god's hand. he is just getting warmed up. ♪ you are going straight to hell on your crazy train ♪ >> reporter: snyder lost his case in lower court and was forced to pay phelps and his followers $16,000. that outraged many including fox news host bill o'reilly who called in to "good morning america" offering to pay the coasts. >> there is no doubt a crime was committed here. there is no doubt that these people went out of their way to hurt fellow americans. >> reporter: whether a crime or free speech is what the court will decide. 21 media organizations filed briefs siding with the protestors and they demonstrations are distasteful but are protected speech. vinita, rob?