A teacher's Law School
Phyllis Taylor - Team Leader
The Teacher's Law School has been developed specifically for educators. The goal of this component is to increase the legal literacy of the people entrusted to educate our children. Teachers will attend a full day session at the courthouse where they wi
ll be taught by Judges and attorneys about our legal system. Teachers who participate in the component will gain the knowledge necessary to develop their own classroom curriculum. They will participate in a courthouse tour then attend class to learn abo
ut the following:
The California Judicial System - Teachers will learn about the history and jurisdictional differences between the Municipal Court, Superior Court, Court of Appeals, and Supreme Court. They will understand the major differences between civil and cr
iminal operations. The jury system will be explained from purpose to selection and also the role of the Grand Jury.
Civil Law Overview - Teachers will learn the difference between small claims and general civil law. An overview of the basics and legal terminology associated to civil law will be discussed.
Criminal Law Overview - Teachers will learn about the types of cases under the authority of the criminal courtrooms. These are infractions, misdoemeanors, and felonies. The differences between these case types will be explained. The various proc
eedings such as arraignments, preliminary hearings, and jury trials will be discussed. They will learn about the juvenile court and how juvenile delinquent actions can affect a child later in life. The numerous punishments for criminal activity such as
jail, community service, counseling, fines, prbation, and prison will be explained. Finally, new directions in criminal law such as "three strikes" and drug court will be explained.
Family Law, Probate, Conservatorship - Teachers will learn about
probate and conservatorship and about the courts'
involvement in the administration and disposition of personal property. With respect to the area of family law, teachers will learn
about parental rights, divorce, separation, and child custody and how these matters are administered by the courthouse.
Panel Discussion - At the end of the class educators attending the Teachers Law School will participate in a question and answer session with apanel of JUdges, Court Administrators, and attorneys from the community. They will be encouraged to ask
panel members questions pertaining to the legal system and discuss any legal issues which impact their ability to teach our children.
Message Center for
questions to the Team Leader
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