The Georgia State Law community gathered to observe the Supreme Court of Georgia hear oral arguments in two criminal cases.
Georgia State University College of Law and the Supreme Court of Georgia teamed up to create a unique opportunity for law students and the public to observe the state’s judicial process firsthand.
On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, a special session was held at the College of Law which is part of the court’s tradition of convening outside its downtown Atlanta courtroom to promote accessibility and transparency. More than 200 people attended the arguments to witness the court conduct its business.
“We hope that this on-campus session will allow citizens, and in particular law students, to observe our court in action and better understand the role of the judiciary in our government,” said Chief Justice Michael P. Boggs.
During the proceedings, the court heard two criminal cases — Blalock v. The State, and Lewis v. The State. Both appeals argued that procedural elements of the original trials could impact fairness of the outcome for the appellants.
This event and others like it give Georgia State Law students a front-row seat to some of the most high-profile cases in the Georgia legal environment and insight into the ways the Justices seek information before writing their opinions.
"Observing Georgia Supreme Court Oral Arguments was an exciting, enriching experience," said Humayra Bramblett (J.D. '26). "I left the ceremonial courtroom feeling inspired by the legal excellence among the Justices and the attorneys. I learned a lot about the kinds of legal arguments and methods of delivery that withstand questioning and challenges from the Justices."
Students in attendance often find that their classroom experiences are intentionally designed to prepare them for a smooth transition into careers after college, giving them exposure to practices and procedures that mirror real-world professional environments.
"One thing that surprised me was how often hypotheticals were used by both the attorneys and the Justices," Bramblett said. "It surprised me to learn how this common law school classroom practice transfers to the Georgia Supreme Court. I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of an institution that organizes exceptional practical opportunities for students such as this one."
Five attorneys are sworn in as new members to the bar for the Supreme Court of Georgia
The court also swore-in five attorneys as new members to the bar of the Supreme Court of Georgia.
“It’s an honor for me to give opening remarks here at the law school I attended,” said Justice Shawn LaGrua (J.D. ‘87). “As lawyers, you are the ultimate embodiment of civil discourse. You have the opportunity to treat your colleagues on the other side of the aisle with the same respect and cordiality you would want to be treated with.”
Click here to view the oral arguments from Nov. 5.
-Written by Lauren Allred