Delaware Law Students Observe State’s Highest Court
2/24/2017
Alumna Julianne Murray ’11 argues in the Ruby R. Vale Moot Courtroom.
The only law school in the state, Widener University Delaware Law School prides itself on providing students with unique experiences and opportunities inside and out of the classroom. Its long-standing tradition of hosting the Delaware Supreme Court to hear oral arguments is one of the school’s most noteworthy occasions.
The arguments take place in the Ruby R. Vale Courtroom and the events follow real life courtroom etiquette and protocol. All students that attend receive a first hand look at trials orchestrated by the highest court in the state, the Delaware Supreme Court.
“It was amazing to watch unfold and to see how well these professionals are able to perform their craft,” said law student, James Betts. “It’s always a great experience to see.”
On Wednesday, Feb. 22, students and faculty eagerly filed into the Ruby R. Vale Courtroom just before 10 a.m. as they awaited the arguments to commence. All five justices of the Supreme Court were present at some point throughout the two arguments.
Justices Collins J. Seitz Jr., Karen Valihura and James T. Vaughn Jr. heard the first argument between the State of Delaware and former DuPont Co. Manager, Gabriel Pardo, regarding manslaughter and related charges following his hit and run of a bicyclist.
Delaware Law School Alumna, Julianne Murray, represented Pardo in the first argument. Murray is a 2011 graduate.
“Watching Julianne Murray, knowing the success she’s had and how intimately she knew her case and her client was refreshing,” said Betts. “I know I can go to this school and be successful and effective in my own career.”
The second argument involved Franklin Brown v. Rite Aid. Brown was a director and officer of Rite Aid who was criminally prosecuted in 2003.