The Washington State Supreme Court is the highest court in the state. It provides the final interpretation of state law. Learn from Washington Supreme Court Chief Justice, Debra Stephens, as she explains how the court works, the importance of judicial precedents, and the other critical roles the Supreme Court plays in Washington.
The Supreme Court – WA Courts
Teacher Resources
Lesson Plan
Discussion Questions
- How many justices are on the Supreme Court?
- What types of cases do they have the final say on?
- What is the difference between discretionary review and direct review?
- Why does the Supreme Court exercise discretionary review?
- What is the value of oral argument?
- How does the Supreme Court decide on who will write the opinion? What types of opinions can be written?
- What three items can the Supreme Court interpret?
- What is precedent?
- How can precedent be overturned?
- In addition to deciding cases, what other important things does the Supreme Court do?
- What has Washington State been a leader on when it comes to the justice system? Why is this important?
- Why should the courts be critical of their own policies?
Series