Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals to Hold Hearings at UH Law Center

In an exciting development for legal scholars and the public alike, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit is set to convene at the University of Houston Law Center to hear oral arguments on March 2 and 3, 2026. This court operates with jurisdiction over federal cases arising from Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, making its proceedings particularly significant for those interested in federal law within these regions.

Held in the John M. O'Quinn Law Building, the hearings are not only open to law students but also the general public, allowing for a rare opportunity to observe the workings of appellate court firsthand. Chief Judge Jennifer Walker Elrod will be at the helm, joined by Judges Patrick E. Higginbotham and James E. Graves Jr. Together, they will review a total of seven cases over the two-day session.

This particular gathering not only emphasizes the importance of the judicial process but also serves as a vital educational moment for students and attendees. As UH Law Dean Leonard M. Baynes remarked, “Judges and lawyers play a vital role in shaping our institutions, values, and society.” The very presence of a federal appellate court represents an earnest commitment to legal education and public understanding of the judicial system.

The cases on the docket highlight a diverse range of legal disputes that exemplify the 5th Circuit's broad mandate. On Monday, March 2, four cases will be heard, followed by three additional cases on Tuesday. Some notable cases include:
1. USA v. Shaquaila Lewis - This case involves a federal criminal appeal challenging a sentence related to the fraudulent acquisition of over $1.1 million through the CARES Act.
2. Lucid Group USA v. Monique Johnson et al. - A commercial dispute concerning automobile dealership laws, raising vital questions about the interaction of federal and state oversight in this business sector.
3. Mark Wightman et al. v. Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. - A civil appeal focused on issues of life insurance coverage and the interpretation of contractual obligations.
4. E'Mann Comichi v. Ingrid Pethel et al. - A civil rights action arising from alleged constitutional infringements.
5. Michael Molitor v. City of Sulphur - Addressing matters of municipal liability involving the actions of local government.
6. Eric McCutchan et al. v. Office of the Attorney General of Texas - A case that delves into state governmental authority and statutory interpretation.
7. Nestor Beltran v. Lockheed Martin Corp. - An employment dispute with significant implications, arising from claims against a major federal contractor.

Due to the serious nature of court proceedings, participants will be subject to specific guidelines. Notably, there will be restrictions on bringing backpacks, recording devices, and cameras while the court is in session.

This event at the UH Law Center is more than just a court hearing; it's an educational celebration of the legal system's functioning. It provides invaluable context into how federal courts operate and tackle real-world issues affecting citizens across multiple states. Attendees will come away not just with knowledge of the cases at hand but with a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of federal law and the judicial process.

The sessions will begin at 9 a.m. on both days, and interested participants are encouraged to register in advance. For further information and registration details, individuals can visit the official website of the United States Court of Appeals - University of Houston Law Center.

This collaboration between the judiciary and academia underscores the commitment of both institutions to enhance public understanding of the law and ensure that the courtroom remains accessible to the community it serves.