BLINN STUDENTS SEE TEXAS APPEALS COURT IN ACTION
Blinn College students got the unique opportunity to see the law in action today when the Texas 10th Court of Appeals heard four cases on the College’s Bryan Campus.
The Court, which consists of Chief Justice Tom Gray and Justices Rex Davis and Al Scoggins, is based in Waco and hears civil and criminal appeals from 18 counties in Central Texas, including Brazos County. This marked the third time the 10th Court has held session on Blinn’s Bryan campus.
The 10th Court, which hears roughly 400 criminal and civil appeals annually, began scheduling sessions outside of Waco to give the public an opportunity to glimpse the law in action. After hearing the first two cases Wednesday, the court took a recess and the justices answered questions from the public.
“It’s great to be here at Blinn to educate students and the public about what we do,” Chief Justice Tom Gray said. “For decades we couldn’t travel, but we’re thankful that the legislature has recognized the educational benefit.”
The hearings held particular interest for students in Blinn’s Legal Assistant and Criminal Justice Programs.
“Many of our students go on to work for attorneys who are involved in the law on a day-to-day basis,” said Robert Stanberry, Blinn’s Legal Assistant Program coordinator. “By watching the appeals court, students understand the process and can determine how to best serve their attorneys. The law touches so many areas and we got to see that in action today.”
After the arguments were heard, the justices returned to Waco, where they will research the legal issues and precedents, then issue a written opinion.
“These are not watered-down proceedings. These are real life cases,” said Melissa Graves a first-year student in the Legal Assistant Program. “I’ve learned so much since I’ve started the program and today is just another example of the true-to-life learning opportunities Blinn provides its students.” Story and photo courtesy of Blinn College.
