COURT OUTREACH
Civics Ceremonies are held each year to commemorate the law, our constitution, citizenship and the freedoms enjoyed by United States citizens. Constitution and Citizenship
Day is observed in September each year to commemorate
the formation and signing of the Constitution on September
17, 1787. 36 U.S.C. § 106 (2004).
The 14th annual Court Works Program was held at the Sandra Day O'Connor U.S. Courthouse in Phoenix, AZ on November 9th. Over 300 8th grade students participated in mock trials assisted by lawyers and staff volunteers. The students also heard from Circuit Judge Mary Murguia and representatives from U.S. Probation, Pretrial Services, and the Marshal Service.
Many federal courthouses are historic buildings, and all are designed for the public to visit and learn first-hand about the tradition and purpose of the American judicial process. The public may visit a court to watch each step of the federal judicial process, with few exceptions.
Media Symposiums
Panels of judges, lawyers and journalists discuss access to information, court communications with the media, and cameras in the courtroom. The program gives media direct access to judges and court personnel.
Reenactments of historic court proceedings are an effective and popular teaching tool. High school students are invited to reenact scripts with the assistance of federal judges, attorneys and teachers. Middle school students will reenact cases adapted to the age group and relevant topic.
An essay and video contest for high school students in the western United States and Pacific Islands. Sponsored by the U.S. Federal Courts for the Ninth Circuit. Contest rules and instructions are now available at: https://www.ca9.uscourts.gov/civicscontest
