By: Nensi Hayotsyan
Written: September 5, 2023
A new school year means new opportunities to get involved, and what better way to get involved than joining Grant’s Teen Court Club? Teen Court is a relatively new club at Grant High School, being revived just last year. This club allows students to get involved in their community and take part in enriching and educational experiences.
Teen Court differs from most clubs as it provides students the opportunity to take part in real-life court cases, which are hosted by a non-profit organization called PESA. PESA works alongside students and staff to provide cases, assist during trials, and create opportunities for club members.
The club meets biweekly on Tuesdays, and club members spend their time conducting jury training, doing mock trials, and listening to insightful presentations from PESA representatives and guest speakers. The main event of the club is their monthly Teen Court Case, where an actual court case that would be tried in juvenile court, is instead assigned to Teen Court, where the jury consists entirely of Teen Court members.
During the trial, students are randomly selected as jurors and are sworn in by real judges from the Van Nuys Courthouse. As the trial proceeds, students who were selected as jurors are allowed to question both the minor and parent, allowing them to conclude whether the minor is guilty, or not guilty. The jurors then discuss their verdict and assign certain conditions for the minor, which are approved by the Judges and carried out by PESA representatives. Students who aren’t selected as jurors act as audience members and are often allowed to ask questions by the judges.
Aside from taking part in real court cases, Teen Court members are exposed to many other significant opportunities like internships, scholarships, and more. Teen Court is a great opportunity for all students interested in law or the justice system, as it allows students to get first-hand experience and insight into the inner workings of the profession.
Club meetings are held every other Tuesday, in room 108. All students are encouraged to join and can contact both Ms.Johnson, the club sponsor, and Nensi Hayotsyan, the club President if any questions arise! You could also check out their Instagram page @teencourt_ghs for updates!
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