Student Association members hope that an appointment will be made at the Oct. 8 SA Senate meeting.

The search for justices is ongoing as the University Student Court remains non-operational in the wake of Neal Michals’ resignation on Sept. 7.

Michals’ resignation is the latest in a series of difficulties the court has had in appointing and retaining justices. The court was also defunct last February when ex-Chief Justice Stan Rubins resigned over a budget dispute.

“It’s difficult to find qualified candidates,” said current Chief Justice Ben Butz. “We need people who have an understanding of student government and most candidates are nearing graduation before they are qualified.”

Candidates need to have a solid understanding of Student Association Senate bylaws and be familiar with the processes that go into student government. Butz and Student Association President Samantha Prahl both acknowledged that experience in dealing with the legislative process in some capacity is a vital factor in appointing qualified candidates.

“The job can sound intimidating,” Prahl said. “But it’s something that is within reach for a lot of students. I think we can get a good, dedicated group together.”

The hope is that at least one justice will be appointed by early October so that the student court can function properly, Prahl said. At least three of five justice positions must be filled to meet quorum and make the court operational. She will be assembling a committee to help in the decision-making process.

“I think that it is important that it’s not just me solely making the decision,” Prahl said.

Term limits are two years for incoming justices, a lengthy commitment for candidates who are typically finishing up school or coming back as graduate students. However, the long term limits are not thought to be a deterrent for candidates and are necessary to prevent the entire court from being chosen by the current SA president.

“People serve as long as they can, I don’t think that dissuades people from service,” Butz said.

If things go according to plan, a new court justice will be appointed at the Oct. 8 SA Senate meeting and the student court will resume its judicial duties.

Applications are available in the Student Association office.

> Comments