Appeals judges hold court at Union University

JACKSON, Tenn. — College students got an up-close look at the judicial system Tuesday as the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals held court at Union University.

Three judges heard arguments in front of a packed auditorium on campus. Byron Elam, a junior, came to watch.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for us here at Union to see the law work in real time,” Elam said.

Judges heard four real criminal cases from West Tennessee.

Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals Staff Attorney Magan Corbin said the defendants have been convicted and want a new trial. “I think probably less than 1 percent of the general public really know what goes on with an appeal,” she said.

Corbin said the court typically only holds this type of special session twice a year. “It’s a good opportunity to educate the public and have them see the process itself,” she said.

“I want them to see how the lawyers and the judges conduct themselves in the system and how the system works,” Dr. Gregory Jordan, Union University professor of business law and ethics, said.

The cases are violent, including everything from vehicular homicide to attempted first-degree murder. “Well, it’s one thing to read about something, but it’s a whole other story when you actually get to see it,” Elam said.

Jordan said the judges will make their decisions at a later date. Students also got the opportunity to ask the judges and lawyers questions.