Public Notice Detail

ST. PAUL, MN.  (April 27, 1999) – Today, in front of an audience of over 500 students, the entire Minnesota Supreme Court heard oral arguments of an actual case at North High School in Minneapolis.  After the oral arguments, Justices took questions from the audience and had lunch with students.

“It is so important for the court to reach out to the people we serve,” said Minnesota Supreme Court Chief Justice Kathleen A. Blatz.  “Meeting with students and answering their questions help bridge the gap of understanding.   At the same time, we have the opportunity to learn from their perspectives and life experiences.  For all parties involved, it’s a valuable exchange.”

In addition to students from Government and Social Studies classes at North High, students from Washburn, Patrick Henry and South High Schools also attended.  During the question and answer session, the students asked about the appeals process, how the Justices were appointed to the state’s highest court and what members of the Court felt was the toughest part of their jobs.  During the lunch, Justices asked students about their reactions to the proceedings and their suggestions for improving the judiciary.

North High Assistant Principal Dr. Wallace Franklin said, “ The chance to witness the actual workings of the Supreme Court is a great educational opportunity for North High students.  They especially appreciate the ability to ask questions and participate directly in discussions with the Justices.”

To assist their understanding of the facts presented, students were given copies of the litigants’ briefs prior to the visit.   In addition, all Supreme Court Justices participated in classes at North High and surrounding schools last week to answer students’ questions about the judiciary.

The visit is part of an educational outreach effort begun by the Supreme Court in 1995 to increase students’ understanding of the judicial system and “demystify” the court process.  To date, the visits have included Duluth, Austin, Willmar, Fergus Falls, Crookston, New Ulm, Virginia and Rochester.  Today’s proceedings mark the first time for oral arguments at a school in the metro area.

Also in attendance at Tuesday’s event were 4th Judicial District Chief Judge Dan Mabley, Juvenile Court Chief Judge Pamela Alexander, Judge Tony Leung and Judge Marilyn Justman.