For Immediate Release

Media Advisory
High School Students Visit Court to Learn about Mistakes and Consequences

(ANNAPOLIS, Md. – October 8, 2015) On Thursday, October 22, approximately 140 high school students from around Anne Arundel County will come to court to learn firsthand about the consequences of making bad decisions. The media are invited to attend the Schools in the Court program at the Anne Arundel County District Court in Annapolis.

The students will watch actual criminal court proceedings, learn about the legal and financial consequences of being charged with offenses such as drunk driving, and hear from people who have experienced the personal and life-changing effects of poor choices. The students will also get a chance to meet members of the Maryland State Police K-9 squad.

"We want them to get an understanding of how the court system works, but we especially want them to understand how making wrong choices about things such as speeding, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, drug use and other crimes can deeply and adversely affect their lives," said Anne Arundel County District Judge Shaem C.P. Spencer, who leads the program. "I look forward to this event and talking with the students. Some students are shocked when the defendants are not much older than they are. Some think the sentences are too light; others think they are too harsh. It’s always a good discussion."

Students from Chesapeake, Broadneck and Annapolis high schools will take part in the October 22 program. The District Court of Maryland in Anne Arundel County is holding the Schools in the Court program four times this school year.

WHAT:
Anne Arundel County District Court’s Schools in the Court program

WHEN:
Thursday, October 22, 2015, 8:30-11:30 a.m..

WHERE:
Courtroom 1, Anne Arundel County District Court, 251 Rowe Boulevard, Annapolis

WHO:
Anne Arundel County District Judge Shaem C.P. Spencer will preside. Approximately 140 Anne Arundel County students from Annapolis, Broadneck, and Chesapeake high schools will attend.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Call the Maryland Judiciary’s Office of Communications and Public Affairs at 410-260-1488 if you want to attend or have questions, including when and where cameras will be allowed.

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