Constitutional Rights Foundation Orange County

Programs: Peer court: a unique, juvenile crime diversion program that reduces criminal activity by first-time juvenile offenders and offers a valuable educational experience to all high school students in orange county. At each session, a sitting judge presides, volunteer attorneys advise, and high school students designated as "jurors" assess the cases presented and assign appropriate sanctions. Students in the audience participate in an interactive curriculum, learning about the juvenile justice system and the importance of making responsible decisions.

orange county career forum: a one-day conference, produced in partnership with the orange county department of education, that connects 1,000 local high school students with business professionals and community leaders. Students attend workshops that expose them to careers in such diverse fields as law enforcement, medicine, and video game development, as well as important life skills such as managing credit and preparing for a successful job interview. A keynote speaker addresses all students with an inspirational message about achieving career goals.

mock trial: this program combines performance-based, law-related education with tournament style, academic competition. Students, working in teams under the guidance of volunteer attorneys and teachers, analyze the facts of a hypothetical criminal court case, prepare trial strategy, and enact every role in the trial proceedings. The teams present their cases in real courtrooms before sitting judges. Students also may compete in courtroom art and journalism contests. Students develop an understanding of our judicial system and develop critical thinking, analytical reasoning, communication, and team building skills. Content is aligned with california's new common core state standards.