Campus, Community

The Washington State Supreme Court will visit the University of Puget Sound Sept. 13–14 for an immersive two days with justices attending classes, hosting a panel, and holding two oral arguments. This marks the third visit from the court, following their previous stops in 2013 and 2017.

"We are honored to welcome the distinguished members of the Washington State Supreme Court to our campus for this momentous event," President Isiaah Crawford said. "This gathering embodies our commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of the legal system and its impact on our society. As we open our doors to oral arguments, panel discussions, and vibrant interactions, we aim to ignite curiosity and critical thinking among our students and the community. The University of Puget Sound is proud to serve as a platform for dialogue, learning, and the pursuit of justice."

The public schedule for this event is as follows:

Wednesday, September 13

Panel Discussions at Schneebeck Concert Hall

  • 12:45–1:45 p.m.: Recent US Supreme Court Decisions and the Impact on Washington State Law.

  • 4–5 p.m.: Insights from the Bench: Perspectives from distinguished justices on state and federal trends and advocacy opportunities, and career advice.

  • 5-6 p.m.:  Reception for Puget Sound Faculty, Staff and Students at Brown Family Courtyard.

Thursday, September 14

Oral Arguments at Schneebeck Concert Hall

  • 9–9:40 a.m.: Oral arguments for Case #1 - Premera Blue Cross v. P.E.L., P.L., and J.L.

  • 9:55–10:35 a.m.: Oral arguments for Case #2 - State of Washington v. Kimonti Dennis Carter & Shawn Dee Reite

  • 10:35–11 a.m.: Q&A session with the audience

  • 11-Noon: Q&A session with judicial law clerks and audience

View the live oral arguments stream
 

Please note the schedule of events is subject to change.

Washington State Supreme Court justices visit classroom at University of Puget Sound.

In addition to hearing oral arguments and holding panel discussions, the justices will also visit classrooms, offering Puget Sound students insights insights into the judicial process.

The Washington State Supreme Court is the highest judicial body in the state, entrusted with interpreting and upholding the law. Comprising a panel of esteemed justices, the court plays a pivotal role in ensuring justice, safeguarding rights, and maintaining the rule of law within the state.

For students, this event offers an exceptional opportunity to engage with and learn from prominent figures in the legal field. Visiting Assistant Professor in the Politics & Government Department, Paige Kolnes, says the close interaction with the Washington State Supreme Court presents invaluable educational experiences by offering insights into the judicial process and the role of legal institutions in political life.

"This campus visit by the Washington State Supreme Court provides students with a remarkable chance to explore the intricacies of the legal world,” said Kolnes. “By interacting with justices and experiencing live legal proceedings, students can gain a deeper appreciation for the role of law in our society."

The public is invited to attend the panel discussions and oral hearings. Recommended parking is in the Thompson Hall parking lot on the east side of N. 14th Street and Union Avenue or along the east side of Union Avenue. Don't miss this chance to be a part of legal discussions and the pursuit of justice.

About University of Puget Sound

A nationally ranked residential liberal arts college in Tacoma, Washington, University of Puget Sound enrolls 1,800 undergraduate students from across the country and around the world, as well as 300 graduate students in education, counseling, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and public health. A low student-faculty ratio provides Puget Sound students with personal attention from faculty members who have a strong commitment to teaching and offer 1,200 courses each year in more than 50 areas of study. Puget Sound graduates include Rhodes and Luce scholars, notables in the arts and culture, scholars and scientists, entrepreneurs and elected officials, and leaders in business and finance locally and throughout the world. A top producer of Fulbright scholars, Puget Sound is the only nationally ranked independent liberal arts college in Western Washington, and one of just five independent colleges in the Northwest granted a charter by Phi Beta Kappa, the nation’s most prestigious academic honor society.

About the Washington State Supreme Court

The Washington State Supreme Court serves as the highest judicial authority in the state and is responsible for interpreting and upholding the law. Comprising a panel of esteemed justices, the Court plays a crucial role in ensuring justice, safeguarding rights, and upholding the rule of law within Washington state.

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