Beyond its constitutional obligations, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal is committed to fostering civic education within the community. This commitment aims to enhance understanding of the court, the law, and the legal profession within our society, and to inspire future lawyers, judges, and responsible citizens.



Convent and Edgard, LA

On March 13-14, 2024, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal held oral arguments at the Fortieth Judicial District Court in Edgard and at the Twenty-Third Judicial District Court in Convent. Judge J. Sterling Snowdy and Judge Cody Martin graciously opened their courtrooms to the Fifth Circuit and to students from East St. John, West St. John, St. James, and Lutcher High Schools. The students heard attorneys present arguments in three civil cases before panels composed of Judge Fredericka H. Wicker, Judge Marc E. Johnson, Judge Stephen J. Windhorst, Judge Scott U. Schlegel, and Judge Timothy S. Marcel. The students were prepared in advance of oral arguments by Judge Jude G. Gravois, who provided instruction on the appellate process generally and discussed the major issues being argued in the cases. Following arguments, the judges visited with the students answering questions and discussing the judicial system and the legal profession.



Loyola Law School

On February 7, 2024, the Louisiana Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal held oral arguments at Loyola Law School. Law students heard attorneys present arguments in both civil and criminal cases before panels composed of Chief Judge Susan M. Chehardy, Judge Fredericka H. Wicker, Judge Jude G. Gravois, Judge John J. Molaison, Jr., and Judge Scott U. Schlegel. Dean Madeleine Landrieu prepared the students in advance of the arguments by providing copies of the attorneys’ briefs and discussing the issues presented in the cases. The judges also spoke with the students, answering questions and discussing the finer points of oral advocacy before the court.



St. Augustine High School

On November 7, 2023, St. Augustine High School seniors in Mr. Michael Howard’s AP Government class attended oral arguments at the Louisiana Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal in Gretna. Following arguments in the courtroom, the students enjoyed lunch with the judges where they further discussed the particulars of arguing before the court and the broader role of the court in the judicial branch of government.