Law: Rights & Careers

Our day in court.

Law continues to be an area of fascination for our group.
For years, we have read and discussed 
Landmark Supreme Court cases.

This past fall our focus was on the system itself and our rights given to us by the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights. For example, how does the U.S. Constitution set the stage for our behaviors? What are Miranda Rights? (Where'd they come from?)

We explored simple court cases, while looking through the eyes of the police, lawyers, and judges. Our exploration of these questions led us to several unique opportunities. During this unit, we chatted with a judge, attorneys, police officer, probation officer, clerk, and bailiffs. We learned about their work tasks, educational preparation, and potential salaries.

Carol reviewed our day in court.

We visited Judge Thomas' courtroom in South Salt Lake Justice Court. Judge Thomas explained each person's job and function needed to run a court room effectively. 

Judge Thomas also explained what happens to each arrested person. We watched a series of individuals go through these different proceedings: 

• arraignment, 

• pretrial conference (pleas of guilty, not guilty, or no content), 

• trial (finding of guilt or innocence via jury or bench trial), and 

• sentencing. 

We were all surprised by how closely the judge kept reviewing each individual's rights, trying to ensure that each person was aware of consequences and possibilities afforded them by the U.S. Constitution. 

Tim shows us his gear.

Tim Cottrell, an Adult Probation & Parole Officer, came to our center to explain his job - what happens when people enter APP - and show us his gear. He also told us about related careers and qualifications. 

Bottom line, we learned a lot about our rights as citizens and career opportunities.