The Missouri Court of Appeals conducted an actual session on Wednesday morning, February 22, at the CJB Theater at Washington High School.
The Court contacted the School District of Washington last September regarding using the venue. During that conversation, the court of appeals indicated that they have used schools in the past as a venue sight to allow students to observe how the court of appeals works.
Students observing the court of appeals session aligns with the goals of the SDOW’s Connect Washington program, which ensures that each student has an opportunity to explore their career passions and interests through experiences in our businesses and industries prior to graduating Washington High School, while connecting careers and essential skills throughout the K-12 classrooms.
The students invited to view the court in action are enrolled in Advanced Placement Government, Advanced Placement US History, and government courses. Notification and permission slips were sent to parents of students enrolled in those classes. It was optional for students to attend.
The court of appeals does not hear from witnesses, plaintiffs, or defendants, just lawyers associated with the case. Each lawyer received approximately 20 minutes to present their side of why the case should or should not be appealable. The three-judge panel oversaw the case.
Following the case, the students in attendance were allowed to ask questions about becoming a lawyer or a judge. They were not allowed to ask questions about the case. Recording devices of any type were prohibited by the court.
Photos from the question and answer period with the students are below.
