KIIT School of Law organised a special lecture titled “Introduction to the US Judicial System” on 10 October 2026, featuring Hon’ble Dr. Michael Arthur Caves, Judge of the Superior Court of California. Dr. Caves is visiting India as a Fulbright Specialist under the USIEF Freedom 250 initiative and is hosted by National Law University Odisha (NLUO).
Dr. Caves brings extensive judicial, legal and academic experience. Before his appointment to the Superior Court of California in January 2023, he served for over fifteen years as a trial attorney and criminal prosecutor. He holds a Ph.D. in Rhetoric and Communication, a Doctor of Jurisprudence and multiple master’s degrees. He has also taught graduate courses in law, ethics and conflict resolution for seventeen years and authored nine books, including the 2026 publication Everyday Dispute Resolution (2nd ed.).
The programme commenced with an inaugural address by Prof. (Dr.) K. D. Raju, Pro-Vice Chancellor, KIIT Deemed to be University, who highlighted the importance of academic engagements that expose law students to international legal systems and comparative perspectives. Dr. Caves was subsequently felicitated on behalf of the institution. Prof. (Dr.) Raju presented him with a bouquet and uttariya, while Prof. Loknath Mohapatra presented a memento. Dr. Kyvalya Garikapati, Dean (Academics), KIIT School of Law, presented a scroll from the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences, and Mr. Udit Narayan Mishra, Faculty Coordinator, presented a gift on behalf of the institution.
During the lecture, Dr. Caves provided an overview of the American judicial system, with particular emphasis on the mechanisms and procedures governing the selection and election of judges in the United States. The session was highly interactive, encouraging students to share their perspectives and engage in discussions on comparative judicial practices.
The question-and-answer session was a key highlight of the programme, as students explored the operational differences between the US and Indian judicial systems. Dr. Caves addressed their queries and offered valuable insights into the functioning of the American judiciary, enabling students to connect classroom learning with practical and comparative legal perspectives.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Udit Narayan Mishra, who expressed gratitude to Dr. Caves for sharing his expertise and acknowledged the support of the university and school administration, dignitaries, faculty members, administrative and support staff, and students.
Following the lecture, Dr. Caves visited the Moot Court Hall and the KIIT School of Law Library and appreciated the facilities available at the institution.
The programme reflects KIIT School of Law’s continued commitment to promoting international academic engagement, comparative legal education and meaningful interactions between students and members of the global legal community.
