The Arkansas Supreme Court will bring its work on the road next month, giving the public a chance to see the state’s highest court in action at Arkansas State University.The event, known as Appeals on Wheels, is scheduled for Thursday, April 2, from 9:45 to noon on the A-State campus. The program is part of a biannual effort to provide Arkansans with a firsthand look at the judicial system.
“This program brings the court to universities and high schools across the state to hold oral arguments in real cases,” said Dr. Stacy Dewald, assistant professor of criminology.
Dewald said the event is designed to give students and the community a better understanding of how the appellate process works.
“The purpose is to provide students, faculty and the broader community with a firsthand look at the appellate process and to increase public understanding of how the state’s highest court functions,” she said.
Attendees will be able to observe live arguments, hear questions from justices and see how legal decisions are evaluated. Dewald said the experience offers something students cannot get from a classroom alone.
“Rather than learning about the courts from a textbook or the media, students will see a real case argued before the Arkansas Supreme Court,” she said.
Following the proceedings, justices will take part in breakout sessions, giving students the opportunity to ask questions and interact with members of the court.
Dewald said the event also serves as a valuable tool for students exploring careers in law and public service.
“Whether you are interested in law, government, public service, or simply want to better understand how decisions are made at the state level, this event offers a front-row seat to democracy in action,” she said.
The event is free and open to the public.
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