Jonesboro, AR – Contributed – The Arkansas Supreme Court is bringing its case load to Arkansas State University. Committed to providing Arkansans with opportunities to witness the judicial system, Appeals on Wheels is a bi-annual event where the court goes on the road.
“This program brings the court to universities and high schools across the state to hold oral arguments in real cases,” said Dr. Stacy Dewald, assistant professor of criminology.
Appeals on Wheels will be held on campus from 9:45 a.m. until noon on Thursday, April 2.
“The purpose is to provide students, faculty and the broader community with a firsthand look at the appellate process and to increase public understanding of how the state’s highest court functions,” Dewald added. “Students will have the opportunity to observe live appellate advocacy, hear judicial questioning, and see how legal arguments are evaluated at the highest level in Arkansas.”
The event is free to attend, and Dewald said it will provide students with a unique opportunity to observe the appellate process in action.
“Rather than learning about the courts from a textbook or the media, students will see a real case argued before the Arkansas Supreme Court,” she added.
Dewald said she reached out to the court to secure this visit to campus.
“I am passionate about community outreach and experiential learning for my students. As an internship coordinator and someone with professional experience in the field, I see part of my role as helping students explore career paths and understand the justice system beyond the classroom,” she added. “Hosting Appeals on Wheels allows us to connect academic learning with real-world practice while also serving the broader Jonesboro community.”
In addition to hearing cases, justices will also participate in breakout sessions with attendees.
“Students will have the opportunity to meet the justices in a more intimate setting. Those conversations can make the legal system feel more accessible and real,” Dewald said.
She said this is a rare opportunity for anyone who would like to attend, adding that the last time the court was in A-State was in 2011.
“Whether you are interested in law, government, public service, or simply want to better understand how decisions are made at the state level, this event offers a front-row seat to democracy in action. It is an engaging, educational experience that is open to the entire campus.”
Following this experience, Dewald said she hopes her students have a better understanding of how the criminal justice system works, particularly the appellate process.
“My goal is for them to leave with a clearer understanding of potential career paths and a stronger appreciation for the role of the judiciary in our justice system,” she concluded.
