On November 7, members of the BYU-Idaho community had the opportunity to attend oral arguments held in front of the Idaho Supreme Court on campus.
After listening to three different cases originating from eastern Idaho, the justices held a question and answer session with BYU-Idaho students. Student presidents from academic societies were also invited to attend a private lunch with the justices.
Madison McDowell, student president of the Phi Alpha Theta History Honors Society at BYU-Idaho, said that the experience increased her confidence.
“The justices encouraged me and my fellow history students to pursue what we love and strive to better the world with the many skills we gain in a history major,” McDowell said. “The government wants people from diverse areas of study so the legal system can be as informed as possible on the issues they may face. The justices enthusiastically encourage anyone remotely interested in the law to pursue that interest, no matter their academic background.”
Gavin Farnsworth, student president of the Pre-Law Society at BYU-Idaho, appreciated how observing the judicial process added to his real-world understanding of his studies.
“It is invaluable to learn from four individuals with such vast experience,” Farnsworth said. “After the event, they took the time to mentor and speak with me and other students personally. Their encouragement and insights were inspiring and made me excited to take my experiences at BYU-Idaho with me into the world.”
The Idaho Supreme Court travels around the state each year to listen to oral arguments, allowing Idahoans in each corner of the state to participate in the judicial process. The court previously visited BYU-Idaho in June 2023.