Fireside Chats

Supreme Courtjusitice Amy barrett interviewed by CHief judge holmes and Judge allison eid

Fred Yarger, President of the 10th Circuit Historical Society, introduced the event and highlighted the society's mission to preserve the history of the 10th Circuit. Chief Judge Holmes introduced Justice Barrett, detailing her background and career. Justice Barrett discussed her upbringing in New Orleans, her education, and her clerkships with Judge Silberman and Justice Scalia. She emphasized the importance of civility, the challenges of balancing family and judicial duties, and the need for clear, concise legal writing. She also shared her love for reading and the adjustments required when transitioning from the Court of Appeals to the Supreme Court.

September 6, 2024

Chief Justice Roberts on Supreme Court Legitimacy and Public Opinion

Chief Justice John Roberts addressed concerns about the Supreme Court's legitimacy and public perception at a conference in Colorado Springs. His remarks came in the wake of controversial decisions, particularly the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization ruling that overturned Roe v. Wade. Roberts acknowledged that criticism of the Court's rulings is "entirely appropriate". However, he drew a clear distinction between critiquing specific decisions and questioning the Court's overall authority and legitimacy. He spoke about the matter at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit’s conference in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The chief justice was supposed to participate in the conference in previous years but due to the COVID-19 pandemic was unable to. Justice Roberts also reflected on the pandemic and the Court’s response. He said for the upcoming 2022-23 term the public would be able to witness oral arguments in person in the courtroom. He did not discuss whether live streaming audio of oral arguments would continue.

September 9, 2022

Life and Legacy of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia

Justice Elena Kagan participated in a discussion about Justice Antonin Scalia's life and legacy at the Tenth Circuit Judicial Conference in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She was joined by two individuals with close connections to Scalia:

  1. William Kelly: A University of Notre Dame Law Professor who previously clerked for Justice Scalia.

  2. Leonard Leo: The executive vice president of the Federalist Society and a friend of Scalia.

September 3, 2016 Transcript

Life in the Federal Judiciary

Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg delivered a poignant address at the 2010 Tenth Circuit Bench and Bar Conference in Colorado Springs. The event took place on August 27, 2010, at the Broadmoor Hotel.

Justice Ginsburg read a speech that was originally intended to be delivered by her late husband, Martin Ginsburg, who had passed away from cancer. This touching gesture highlighted the close personal and professional relationship the Ginsburgs shared throughout their lives.

Following the speech, Justice Ginsburg engaged in a discussion with Chief Justice Beverly McLachlin of the Supreme Court of Canada. Their conversation focused on comparing and contrasting the judicial systems of the United States and Canada. This exchange provided valuable insights into the similarities and differences between the two neighboring countries' legal frameworks.

August 27, 2010

Review of Supreme Court 1992 Term

At the 1993 10th Circuit Judicial Conference Justice Byron White, originally from the Tenth Circuit spoke about changes in the Supreme Court since his appointment in 1962 by President Kennedy. He noted the increase in petitions for certiorari, the changes in the Court’s docket, and his decisions on the Court. As part of the speech, Justice White took part in a panel discussion with several of his clerks.

July 23, 1992

Supreme Court Term Review

Supreme Court Justice Byron White spoke to the 10th Circuit Judicial Conference on the significant cases in the 1991 term of the Supreme Court. Justice White discussed the resignation of Justice Marshall from the Supreme Court, the heavy workload of the court, and the major decisions of the court in areas such as civil rights. Following his prepared remarks, Justice White responded to questions on the Supreme Court’s activities from a panel of judges and attorneys.

July 19, 1991

Review of 1989 Supreme Court Term

Supreme Court Justice Byron White commented on some of the most significant cases of the 1988-89 Supreme Court term, including: Mistretta v. United States, Webster v. Reproductive Health Services, Allegheny County v. ACLU, and Patterson v. McLean Credit Union. Justice White also discussed the influence of media interest, public opinion, and work load on Supreme Court decisions.

August 4, 1989