Maryland Courts

High School Students Learn about Courts, Consequences, and Choices

Approximately 170 high school students from Anne Arundel County came to court on Thursday, November 10, to learn about the legal and financial consequences of being charged with offenses such as drunk driving.  The students were taking part in the Schools in the Court program at the Anne Arundel County District Court in Annapolis.

Students from Arundel, Chesapeake, Glen Burnie, and North County high schools watched court proceedings and heard directly from people who have experienced life-changing effects of poor choices, Anne Arundel County District Judge Shaem C.P. Spencer explained.  Students also met members of the Maryland State Police K-9 squad and watched them in action.

“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," Judge Spencer said.  “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.”

The District Court of Maryland in Anne Arundel County holds four Schools in the Court programs each school year.  Judge Spencer said the goal is to have students from every school in Anne Arundel County take part in the program.

PHOTOS FROM THE PROGRAM:

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(11/15/2016)