The Minnesota Court of Appeals convened at Fergus Falls High School on March 23, drawing more than 600 students to observe a live oral argument session. Judges JaPaul Harris, Elizabeth Bentley, and Anne Rasmusson presided over the case State of Minnesota vs. Abdirahman MohamedAbdi and engaged with students through a question-and-answer session and small group discussions.
The event provided students with firsthand exposure to the legal process. Fergus Falls Mayor Anthony Hicks said, “I think it was great for our community. And I think it was a fantastic event for the kids at the school to see something that is real — this wasn’t made up, it was actually a real appeal.”
After hearing arguments in the case, judges met with student representatives over lunch and later held an informal gathering with about 50 students interested in learning more about law careers. Senior Thirdy Abarte said, “Having been in [YMCA] Youth in Government, I already knew the premise of what was going to happen, but seeing actual lawyers and judges…it’s been very eye opening. I’ve been very passionate about being a lawyer since I was young, so I think this opportunity will spark more lawyers in our country.” Fellow senior Olivia Rogholt added, “I thought it was really fascinating. I was just surprised that we got to see this in general — I wouldn’t expect [this] to come to our school.”
Fergus Falls High School Principal Mark Anderson said, “We are grateful for the opportunity to host members of the Minnesota Court of Appeals. It’s real-world learning experiences like this that are so exciting and beneficial for our students.”
The Minnesota Judicial Branch serves residents statewide by upholding the rule of law according to its official website. The branch is dedicated to delivering fair and impartial justice across Minnesota according to its official website.
Operating as the state’s judicial system throughout all regions according to its official website, it promotes transparency through public court proceedings and opinions according to its official website. The branch also provides public access to court records, forms and case information according to its official website.
