The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear two new cases in its upcoming term, focusing on significant legal issues. One case, Ellingburg v. United States, will examine whether the Mandatory Victim Restitution Act can be applied retroactively, a matter that has created a divide among federal and state courts. The second case, Villarreal v. United States, addresses the constitutionality of barring a defendant from discussing their testimony with an attorney during a trial recess. This case raises questions about the Sixth Amendment rights of defendants and their access to legal counsel during critical trial phases. The court's decision on these matters could have far-reaching implications for criminal law and defendants' rights.