Amy Coney Barrett Shares Insights at ‘Listening to the Law’ Event
On March 8th, 2026, St. John’s College and the University of New Mexico (UNM) School of Law had the distinct honor of hosting U.S. Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett for a captivating event titled “Listening to the Law.” The live, onstage conversation delved into the themes explored in Justice Barrett’s book, offering a unique glimpse into her personal journey, daily life on the Court, and her nuanced approach to the judicial role.
A Deep Dive into Justice Barrett’s Perspective
The discussion, held at the Lensic Performing Arts Center in Santa Fe, wasn’t just a recounting of facts; it was an exploration of principles. Justice Amy Coney Barrett shared her thoughts on interpreting the law, particularly the Constitution, providing valuable insights into the complexities of constitutional law. Her perspective offers a crucial understanding of the decision-making processes within the highest court in the nation.
Moderated by Legal Luminaries
The event benefited from the skillful moderation of two highly respected legal figures: Hon. David F. Levi, President of the American Law Institute and former Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of California, and Ben Allison, co-founder of the Santa Fe law firm Bardacke Allison Miller LLP. Their insightful questions guided the conversation, allowing Justice Barrett to elaborate on key aspects of her judicial philosophy.
Beyond the Headlines: A Look Inside the Court
Attendees were treated to a rare behind-the-scenes look at the workings of the Supreme Court. Justice Amy Coney Barrett discussed the daily realities of serving on the Court, offering a humanizing perspective on an institution often perceived as distant and abstract. This glimpse into the Court’s internal dynamics is invaluable for anyone interested in the American legal system.
UNM School of Law: A Hub for Legal Discourse
This event underscores the UNM School of Law’s commitment to fostering robust legal discourse and providing students with opportunities to engage with leading figures in the legal field. The School of Law continues to be a vital center for legal education and scholarship. Recent achievements include successful student participation in the National Environmental Law Moot Court Competition and the ABA National Negotiation Competition, as well as the election of a UNM School of Law alumna to a second term as Chief Justice of Guam.
Further Information
For more information about the UNM School of Law, please visit: https://law.unm.edu/
Learn more about the American Law Institute: https://www.ali.org/
