Behind the towering windows and long brick walls of the Williamsburg-James City County Courthouse is a complex system of laws, procedures and traditions that are likely a mystery to many of those who have not set foot in the building.
That’s what the Citizen Court Academy aims to change.
The free series of three classes will take place Oct. 15, 22 and 29 and provide the general public a window into the court system and the far-reaching touch its two main arms — civic and criminal — have on life for citizens throughout its jurisdiction.
Representatives of the different groups at work within the courthouse will lead the classes, including judges, prosecutors, lawyers, sheriff’s office representatives, the magistrate, probation services and victim-witness services.
The first week will feature Walter S. Felton Jr., the Chief Judge of the Virginia Court of Appeals. Along with his presentation, General District Court Judge Colleen Killilea, Williamsburg-James City County Sheriff Bob Deeds, and Chief Magistrate for the 9th Judicial District Virginia Munoz will all give presentations on the function of their jobs. Participants will also receive a tour of the courthouse.
On Oct. 22, participants will receive presentations from Williamsburg-James City County Commonwealth’s Attorney Nate Green, attorney Tom Turbeville, probation and pre-trial services and the victim-witness program. Topics to be covered then include classification of crimes, courtroom criminal procedure and a demonstration of the video arraignment system.
The final session will explore civil and traffic matters, looking at dollar limits and mediation in civil cases. The traffic segment will involve laws pertaining to driving under the influence, traffic infractions and police issues like radar, checkpoints and the alco-sensor.
Space in the classes is limited and reservations are required. To make a reservation, call the Williamsburg-James City County Sheriff’s Department at 564-2220.
