North Dakota Supreme Court enhances public access with live webcasts and extensive online resources

The North Dakota Supreme Court is stepping up its commitment to transparency and accessibility, as highlighted in a recent meeting. The court's website now serves as a comprehensive resource for the public, featuring live webcasts of oral arguments, archived recordings, and a wealth of legal information.

Justice Lisa Fair McEvers emphasized the importance of the court's digital presence, stating that the website not only hosts opinions spanning many years but also provides a detailed directory of licensed lawyers, biographies of state judges, and guides to navigating the judicial system. This initiative aims to enhance public understanding and engagement with the legal process.

Oral arguments are scheduled throughout the day, with sessions typically lasting 50 minutes. However, no decisions are made during these arguments; instead, cases are taken under advisement, with written opinions released within weeks. The court encourages citizens to subscribe for email notifications about new opinions and updates, further promoting transparency.

The North Dakota Supreme Court, the highest court in the state, plays a crucial role in reviewing decisions from district courts and administrative agencies. With five justices elected for ten-year terms, the court also addresses disciplinary matters involving lawyers and judges. The Chief Justice, elected for a five-year term, leads the court and oversees the state's judicial system.

This focus on accessibility and public engagement marks a significant step forward for the North Dakota Supreme Court, ensuring that legal proceedings and resources are readily available to all citizens.