In an exciting development for law students at Gonzaga School of Law and Seattle University School of Law, retired Supreme Court Justice Barbra Madsen has announced she will be joining their faculties to teach state constitutional law. After a distinguished career on the bench, where she penned numerous influential opinions, Justice Madsen is set to bring her vast experience and legal acumen directly into the classroom.

“I’m really excited about teaching law, particularly state constitutional law, since I’ve written so many of the opinions,” Madsen shared. Her transition from adjudicating at the highest level to educating aspiring lawyers marks a significant shift in her professional journey, promising to enrich the academic experience for her future students.

For those law students who may have feared stumbling through a cold call in class, the stakes are now amusingly higher. Imagine discussing a case only to realize the judge who crafted the ruling is also your professor. Justice Madsen’s presence in the classroom not only elevates the learning environment but also adds a layer of authenticity and insight that is rare in legal education.

Students will have the unique opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge of the thought processes behind landmark decisions and explore the complexities of balancing legal reasoning with judicial philosophy. This behind-the-scenes look at the judicial system is a treasure trove for any law student, especially those interested in constitutional law.

Moreover, Justice Madsen’s upcoming role as a law professor is a testament to her commitment to education and access to justice. While her courses will primarily focus on constitutional issues, discussions on broader legal topics such as access to justice are anticipated, enriching the academic discourse further.

As Justice Madsen prepares to embark on this new chapter in the next academic year, both current and prospective law students at Gonzaga and Seattle University are encouraged to brace themselves for a deeply engaging and intellectually stimulating experience. With her at the helm, the complexities of constitutional law will come alive in new and profound ways, undoubtedly shaping the minds and careers of future legal experts.

For more information on Justice Madsen’s transition to academia and her perspectives on law and justice, visit [Spokesman.com](https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2026/feb/23/supreme-court-justice-to-teach-at-gonzaga-seattle-/).