U.S. Supreme Court Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh Visits Baylor Law School for the Judge Kenneth W. Starr Federalist Papers Lecture Series

On Thursday, September 11, Baylor Law School hosted U.S. Supreme Court Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh as part of the Judge Kenneth W. Starr Federalist Papers Lecture Series. This program, presented by John and Marie Chiles, was established to encourage reflection on the enduring importance of the Federalist Papers in understanding America’s constitutional order.

Justice Kavanaugh visited at the invitation of Alice Starr, the widow of the late Judge Kenneth W. Starr, for whom the lecture series is named. The event, exclusively for Baylor Law School students, faculty, and staff, provided a unique opportunity to hear directly from one of the nation’s most prominent jurists.

The session began with Baylor University President Dr. Linda A. Livingstone, who introduced Justice Kavanaugh and Dean Jeremy Counseller. Dean Counseller then moderated a wide-ranging discussion that traced Kavanaugh’s path to the Supreme Court, his work on the Court, and his thoughts on the role of civil discourse in law and society.

“It was an honor to welcome Justice Kavanaugh to Baylor Law as part of the Starr Federalist Papers Lecture Series,” said Dean Counseller. “Hearing directly from a sitting Supreme Court Justice in conversation about constitutional interpretation and the role of the judiciary is a rare opportunity for law students. Events like this reflect Baylor Law School’s commitment to civil discourse and to preparing students with the foundation needed to engage deeply with the principles and institutions that shape our legal system.”

Justice Kavanaugh spoke candidly about the demands of serving on the Court and the weight of precedent, noting that the judiciary’s responsibility is to apply the law consistently. Drawing a parallel to sports, he noted that just as fairness depends on umpires enforcing the rules impartially, the legitimacy of the courts depends on principles being applied evenly, regardless of political, economic, or social context. He further emphasized that civil discourse is essential for the legal profession and the health of American democracy.

Addressing Baylor Law students directly,  Justice Kavanaugh urged them to cultivate the habit of listening, an essential skill for the legal profession.  He reminded students that while the law often places lawyers in adversarial roles, effective advocacy depends not only on persuasive argument but also on the ability to understand opposing viewpoints. He also encouraged students to consider public service as part of their professional journey, emphasizing that civility and a commitment to the greater good are indispensable to the profession.