Supreme Court Justices travelled to Grand Island to hold Law Day events along with an argument session in the Senior High School auditorium on May 4, 2018.

The evening prior to arguments, the Court met with Grand Island, Kearney and Hastings area bar associations to thank lawyers for their community volunteerism and civic engagement during a Law Day reception co-hosted by the Nebraska State Bar Foundation. Following arguments, the Court participated in a luncheon with Grand Island High School Mock Trial Students, members of the school board and select guests.

The visit was part of the educational outreach effort by the Nebraska Supreme Court and the legal community to raise awareness of court processes, and the importance of civics education to our society. “The Justices on the Supreme Court recognize that our laws are complex and can be difficult to understand,” said Chief Justice Mike Heavican. “We want the students to understand how the court system works to ensure that justice is served.”

At the request of the Court, District Court Judge Teresa Luther explained the structure and function of the state court system to students, and State Court Interpreter Coordinator Irma Watt, with the assistance of  Chief Justice Heavican, presented a demonstration of simultaneous court interpretation.

According to Grand Island High School Mock Trial Coordinator Ms. Tara Nettifee, “This is an excellent opportunity for students to see the world of law in action here at our own school.”  

Read story in the Grand Island Independent: Nebraska Supreme Court comes to GISH  -- In asking questions, students don’t stand on tradition  

Photo: Justice Lindsey Miller-Lerman (center) engages GISH students in luncheon discussion following oral arguments.