Volunteer Jurors & Appellate Panel Judges
After-School
Volunteer Jurors & Appellate Panel Judges
Volunteer jurors and appellate panel judges help create a meaningful final event for participants in Discovering Justice’s Mock Trial & Mock Appeal Program. In December, jurors support our students’ and volunteers’ semester-long efforts by filling the jury box, listening to arguments, determining the case with the guidance of a real judge, and providing feedback. In May, appellate panel judges will read the petitioner and respondent’s appellate memos, listen to and question students during oral arguments, and provide feedback.
A brief reception follows the culminating courthouse events in which attendees come together to celebrate the end of the program. These events are a great opportunity for both first-time volunteers to see our program action and for returning volunteers to deepen their connection to Discovering Justice.
Contact Malia Brooks at khartman@discoveringjustice.org for more information.
Open Volunteer Opportunity: Appellate Panel Judge
We are now accepting volunteer Appellate Panel Judges to assist with our two-hour Mock Appeal Final Courthouse Events. As an Appellate Panel Judge, you will play a key role in helping determine the outcome of students’ First Amendment case about a high school’s decision to suspend a student who organized a student protest against a school phone ban. You will listen to oral arguments, ask questions to test students’ understanding of the law, work with your panel to provide a ruling, and celebrate teams’ work with fellow community members.
Given that volunteers will be testing students’ understanding of the law, a legal background is required. However, moot court and appellate experience are NOT required.
Volunteer Opportunity Recap
- Volunteer as an Appellate Panel Judge
- Sit on a 3-person panel with a Federal or State judge and attorney
- At a courthouse near you
- 2-hour event
Support local students who are interested in learning about the law, their rights, and the justice system! Information and optional training provided closer to the events.
Register here or contact afterschool@discoveringjustice.org for more information.
