#139, OTOH, Annabelle Tuck, trailblazer in Arkansas law, part 3, Nov 7 2025

In part 3 of our conversation with Annabelle Tuck, April and Glen delve into broader issues of the law and the jurisprudential philosophies that influence decision-making by courts in the state and nationally. Recent increased use of the “shadow docket” by the US Supreme court is of concern to Annabelle, as it has a major impact on the legal status of ongoing cases without providing any rationale into the reasons for these initial decisions, leaving attorneys and courts around the country with no guidance toward resolving important legal and constitutional questions. A fascinating discussion ensues on how recent Supreme Court decisions in her view can take too big of a “slice” in some legal cases and how that can mistakenly get ahead of public opinion, an important consideration in promoting societal acceptance of the court’s decisions. We also hear about her volunteer activities during her retirement that include advocacy for greater access to the legal system by the disadvantaged.