PastIn Person

2026 Originalism Conference

by University of Florida Levin College of Law

The University of Florida Levin College of Law is pleased to host its second Originalism Conference on March 5-6, 2026, in Gainesville, Florida. This two-day event will bring together federal judges, state supreme court justices, and leading scholars to explore originalism's role in constitutional interpretation and its relationship with contemporary adjudication.

The conference will feature a series of panel discussions addressing key questions at the intersection of originalism and adjudication. Topics include the institutional division of labor between legal scholars and courts, the challenges and opportunities of applying originalism to state constitutions, and a preview of the Supreme Court's end-of-term cases. Additionally, a roundtable discussion on teaching originalism will provide insights into pedagogical approaches.

Attendees will have opportunities to engage with notable speakers such as Professor Randy E. Barnett from Georgetown University Law Center, Professor Josh Blackman from South Texas College of Law, and Chief Justice Carlos G. Muñiz of the Florida Supreme Court. The event will also include a keynote address, junior scholar presentations, and networking receptions, fostering connections among academics, practitioners, and students interested in constitutional law.

This conference is ideal for legal scholars, practitioners, and students seeking to deepen their understanding of originalist theory and its practical applications. Participants will gain valuable insights into current debates and methodologies in constitutional interpretation, enhancing their professional development and scholarly pursuits.

Speakers(20)

Adam Lebovitz

Professor of Law at University of Florida Hamilton School

Professor Adam Lebovitz's research focuses on constitutional law and political theory.

Aditya Bamzai

Professor of Law at University of Virginia School of Law

Professor Aditya Bamzai specializes in administrative law, civil procedure, and federal courts.

Ben Johnson

Professor of Law at University of Florida Levin College of Law

Professor Ben Johnson teaches and writes in the areas of constitutional law and legal theory.

Carlos G. Muf1iz

Chief Justice at Florida Supreme Court

Chief Justice Carlos G. Mu0f1iz leads the Florida Supreme Court and oversees the state's judicial system.

Gary Lawson

Professor of Law at University of Florida Levin College of Law

Professor Gary Lawson is an expert in administrative law and constitutional interpretation.

Jason Gonzalez

Attorney at Lawson Huck Gonzalez PLLC

Mr. Jason Gonzalez is a practicing attorney specializing in appellate litigation.

Jed Shugerman

Professor of Law at Boston University School of Law

Professor Jed Shugerman's research includes constitutional history and judicial politics.

Jeffrey S. Sutton

Chief Judge at U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit

Chief Judge Jeffrey S. Sutton oversees appellate cases in the Sixth Circuit.

John D. Couriel

Justice at Florida Supreme Court

Justice John D. Couriel serves on the Florida Supreme Court, contributing to the state's highest judicial decisions.

John Stinneford

Professor of Law at University of Florida Levin College of Law

Professor John Stinneford specializes in criminal law and constitutional interpretation.

Event Details

Date
March 5-6, 2026
2 days
Location
🇺🇸 Gainesville, United States
Martin H. Levin Advocacy Center, UF Levin College of Law
Pricing
Free
Audience
Legal scholars, practitioners, and students interested in constitutional law and originalist theory.
CLE Credits
8.0 General and 8.0 Education Law CLEs from The Florida Bar

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