By Megan Boatwright, Local News 8 Reporter
It was a rare occurrence in St. Anthony Friday morning, the highest court in the state of Idaho ruling cases from a Fremont County bench.
It was a morning of photos, handshakes and old friends. "By far the most fun is seeing old friends, like Judge Schinderling and Judge Walker," said Justice, Roger Burdick. "Judge Walker and I have sat on many committees together."
It's not often that Supreme Court justices make it to our side of the state, so when they do it's time to play catch up.
"We see them maybe once a year at a judicial conference and maybe on a few committee assignments," said 7th Judicial District Magistrate Judge, Keith Walker. "It's an opportunity to have them here, and socialize."
After a little fun it's time for business, and as the entire senior U.S. Government class at South Fremont High School files in, the courtroom begins to buzz with excitement.
Justices Burdick, J. Jones, Horton and W. Jones will hear three cases throughout the day, as students take notes.
"This is something these students will probably never have the chance to see again," said Judge Walker.
The Idaho Supreme Court usually hears case in Idaho Falls once a year, but since 2009 is the centennial anniversary for the Fremont County Courthouse, the panel decided to visit St. Anthony.
"There are many places throughout Idaho where we are still functioning out of 100-year-old buildings," said Justice Burdick. "The courthouse in Fremont County is obviously the freshest at this point. Everything looks marvelous."
For the Justices it's just another day at work, but for the rest of the courtroom, it's a unique experience.
"It's a neat way to see how our government works in the U.S. and specifically Idaho," said South Fremont Senior, Nathan Smith.
"It's a lot different hearing about something versus actually seeing it happen," said student, Jenna Larson.
Chief Justice Daniel Eismann was not able to sit with the rest of the panel Friday. However, he will be listening to recordings of the arguments, and will fully participate in the final decision of each case.
