The Arkansas Supreme Court will hold a live oral argument at Arkansas State University on April 2 as part of its statewide “Appeals on Wheels” program.

The session begins at 9:45 a.m. in Riceland Hall at the Fowler Center and is open to students, faculty and the public. The event will allow attendees to observe the appellate process outside of a traditional courtroom in Little Rock.

Jessica Schnurr, president of the A-State Pre-Law Club, said the event offers students a chance to connect what they learn in class with the real-world legal process.

“This event provides a valuable experiential learning opportunity that complements what students study in the classroom,” Schnurr said.

According to the Arkansas judiciary website, the Appeals on Wheels program is designed to increase public understanding of the judicial system by bringing oral arguments to schools and universities across Arkansas. The initiative allows students to witness how justices examine legal arguments and evaluate whether lower courts correctly applied the law.

Unlike trial courts, which focus on determining facts and hearing witness testimony, appellate courts review legal interpretations and procedural issues. During oral arguments, attorneys present their positions while justices ask questions before issuing a written decision at a later date.

Stacy Dewald, assistant professor of criminology, said the event gives students an opportunity to observe the judicial process outside of a traditional courtroom.

Dewald said the event supports the university’s academic mission by allowing students to connect classroom learning to real-world legal proceedings.

Schnurr said observing oral arguments allows students to see how attorneys and justices interact during appellate proceedings.

“This allows them to see how legal arguments are actually presented and questioned by the justices,” Schnurr said.

Students interested in careers in law and public service are expected to attend the session, which organizers say offers insight into the realities of appellate advocacy.

The event is sponsored by the Department of Sociology and Criminology, the College of Liberal Arts and Communication, the Honors College and the Pre-Law Club. University officials said the event is part of ongoing efforts to connect students with real-world legal experiences.

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