Who draws the lines?

Courts are also sometimes called on to draw district lines. Most state constitutions set a deadline by which the regular process of redistricting must be completed. If the primary redistricting body has not drawn a viable map by then, state or federal courts may step in to make sure that the district lines are set before the next election. Also, if the maps are produced on time, but are legally flawed, some courts will draw maps of their own, particularly if elections are around the corner, and there is not enough time to give the pen back to the original drawers.

In the 2010 redistricting cycle, the courts have already been involved in the redistricting process in some fashion in the states highlighted above. Far more legal action is anticipated before the cycle is over.