HYATTSVILLE, Md. — Courthouse staff in Prince George’s County are leading efforts to introduce young minds to the legal system through Schools in Court. The goal is to expose teenagers to the justice system firsthand, encouraging them to think carefully before making life-altering choices.
Teens from Prince George’s County Public Schools attend real court proceedings and have the opportunity to interact directly with judges and courthouse employees.
On Feb. 13, a session of Schools in Court was hosted at the Prince George’s County District Court as part of Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month.
Public Information Officer Nick Cavey explained the program’s objectives: “The session provided students with a firsthand look at various aspects of the criminal justice process. They observed a bond hearing, gaining insight into how judges determine pretrial release conditions and the role of defense attorneys and prosecutors in advocating for their positions.”
He added: “In addition, they participated in an interactive mock traffic stop and watched a live demonstration by a canine officer and handler.”
Understanding the Legal Consequences of Every Action
Students may learn about the legal system in the classroom, but many have never experienced it in real life. Schools in Court aims to bridge that gap by providing real-world exposure to laws, court procedures, and legal consequences.
Participating students learn about a variety of common offenses, such as traffic violations, and the potential penalties associated with them.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Friends
A core takeaway from Schools in Court is the importance of making responsible choices, including who teenagers surround themselves with.
“Students should understand that their choices have legal and life-altering consequences, reinforcing the importance of making responsible decisions,” said Judge Cheri N. Simpkins.
The program emphasizes that associating with individuals involved in illegal activities can lead to situations that result in legal trouble.
How Crime Affects Communities
Many people who have never interacted with the justice system may not fully understand how a single crime can impact an entire community. Judge Simpkins elaborated on this reality:
“Hearing testimonies or seeing cases play out can help students recognize how crime affects victims, families, and communities.”
Crime affects not only victims but also the families of those accused. Schools in Court helps students recognize that even seemingly minor infractions can have lasting consequences.
Educating Students About Drug Use
Illegal drug use carries severe legal penalties and can have long-term health consequences. Many high school students may not fully grasp the dangers of substances like fentanyl, so Schools in Court provides guidance to steer young people away from harmful narcotics.
“Students receive a well-rounded education on both the health impacts and legal consequences of using fentanyl and other narcotics,” Cavey said. “Alongside medical experts discussing the health risks of fentanyl and other narcotics, students also hear from law enforcement officers, public defenders, and prosecutors who explain the legal ramifications of drug-related offenses.”
Exposing Students to Careers in the Legal System
One of the goals of Schools in Court is to introduce young people to potential careers in the legal field.
“Exposure to judges, attorneys, and court staff may inspire students to consider careers in law and public service,” said Judge Simpkins.
By meeting professionals in the legal system, students gain insight into unique job opportunities that they might not have considered otherwise.
Through real-world experience, Schools in Court gives students the knowledge they need to make informed decisions in their daily lives.
A special thanks to Judge Simpkins, Judge Lisa Hall Johnson, Nick Cavey, Ivette Lucero Lopez, and all courthouse staff involved in making Schools in Court a success.
For more information on Schools in Court, visit the program’s webpage.
Contact our news desk at news@thebaynet.com
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