Serving on a Jury

Students role-play a court room trial based on scenarios involving juvenile offenders.

Author: Street Law for Youth Court

Students role-play a court room trial based on scenarios involving juvenile offenders.  There are two possible scenarios involving either vandalism or shoplifting.  Instructions are given for several different role-play models, depending on whether adults take some of the roles.  Students learn about the role of the jury, trials, advocacy and case preparation.

Objectives:

Students will:

  • Explain what a juror does and why it is important
  •  Define mitigating and aggravating circumstances and explain why these concepts are important in determining an appropriate sentence for an offender
  •  State the steps involved in a youth court hearing
  •  Demonstrate trial, advocacy, and case preparation skills
  •  Apply listening, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills to the process of deliberation and sentencing

Source: 3 serving on a jury

Source

Street Law—a nonprofit organization that creates classroom and community programs that teach people about law, democracy, and human rights worldwide. Street Law program participants benefit from “real-life” lessons and insights, which they can use to effect positive change for the rest of their lives. Our accessible, engaging, and interactive programs empower students and communities to become active, legally-savvy contributors to society.

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