As part of the Nebraska Supreme Court’s ongoing outreach and education efforts, Supreme Court Justices will hold oral arguments at Bellevue West High School auditorium on the afternoon of March 30, 2022.

The visit marks the first time that the Supreme Court has held arguments in the city of Bellevue. The visit is part of a continuing effort by the Nebraska Supreme Court and the legal community to raise awareness of court processes and the importance of civics education to American society.

Shortly after 1:00 p.m., Principal Kevin Rohlfs will review rules and expectations with the students noting that at 1:45 p.m., the auditorium will transform into a Supreme Court Courtroom for the remainder of the day. Sarpy County Trial Court Judge Todd Hutton will discuss with the students the differences between the trial and appellate court systems and provide a background for what they will experience during the argument session.

In explaining the purpose of the high school argument sessions, Chief Justice Mike Heavican noted, “It is critical that our students understand the workings of our democratic institutions and have confidence in our court system.” He continued, “The Court looks forward to the Bellevue West visit and a learning experience for all involved in the session.”

“I am proud of the success of our Mock Trial team, which led to this wonderful opportunity for our students. It will be an honor to observe the highest level of the Nebraska judicial system in action at Bellevue West,” noted Bellevue West High School principal Mr.Kevin Rohlfs.

Wednesday’s argument at Bellevue West will follow the Supreme Court’s oral argument session at the Creighton University School of Law that same day from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

For over 40 years, the Supreme Court has traveled annually to each of Nebraska’s law schools for the purpose of making the Court’s business accessible to students on their campuses. Justices spend time after argument sessions talking to students about the appellate process and career opportunities as lawyers. Cases are selected to demonstrate the variety of legal arguments that face the court system on a regular basis.

Bellevue West’s Mock Trial team coach Megan Flynn remarked, “I am honored that our school and our students were chosen for this unique opportunity to view the Supreme Court Justices. Learning about the judicial system provides our students with crucial critical thinking and professional skills that aid in preparing them for their future goals.”

Whether held in the Supreme Court courtroom or outside the State Capitol, all argument sessions are open to the public. Audio and most video recordings of arguments are maintained on the Judicial Branch Website in the oral argument archive.