Purcellville, VA- November 7, 2024, Blue Ridge Middle School eighth-grade students visited the Leesburg Courthouse, gaining firsthand experience and knowledge about the judicial system.
This local field trip provided students with an inspiring and authentic learning experience. They explored the differences between civil and criminal trials to understand the roles and duties in each type of case. The process of jury selection and the civic duty to serve as a juror were discussed. Students also learned about the roles of judges, clerks, prosecutors, and defense attorneys, as well as the levels of the court system, including district, appellate, and juvenile courts. The significance of jury trials in a democratic society and the importance of citizen participation in the justice system were emphasized throughout the trip.
The students had the privilege of meeting Judge Horne, who shared valuable insights into his role and experiences. They learned about the responsibilities of probation officers, including the use of ankle monitors. Six students participated in a mock trial where they took on roles as prosecutor, defense attorney, defendant, and witness, which provided them with a realistic opportunity to learn about courtroom proceedings. They also observed part of an actual civil court case, gaining firsthand experience of real-world legal proceedings.
The students also visited the clerk’s office which highlighted the importance of maintaining land deeds, birth and death certificates, and other vital records. During lunch, the students engaged in a Q&A session with an attorney. They visited the law library and archives, which house books dating back to the late 1700s, which provided insight into the history of the local legal system. The trip also included a visit to the old courthouse, recently renamed the Charles Hamilton Houston Courthouse, where Judge Horne provided details about its history and significance.
Alice Clark, an eighth grader who attended the trip stated, “ I feel like going and learning about the courthouse is an experience I will take with me. This was an opportunity to teach students about our town and history that led us here.” We really dove deep into options for our future and what people from our past have done. I hope that other students get this opportunity!”
Mr. Martz, a Blue Ridge Middle School Civics teacher commented, "The students not only were able to see a live civil trial, but were able to role play for a fictitious criminal trial. They also listened to a real judge, a real lawyer and learned a little about the history of Loudoun's judicial system."
This educational visit to the Leesburg Courthouse offered students a unique and immersive experience that bridged classroom learning with real-world, local legal practices.
Blue Ridge Middle School eighth grader, Dawson Ritchie, gets realistic legal experience with Judge Horne.
Eighth grade Blue Ridge Middle School students experience court through various roles.