Court School
An Education and Awareness Program
 to help children testify in court

Testifying in court as a victim and / or witness can be traumatic for a child. Reasons for this are: publicly confronting the alleged perpetrator, recalling the alleged abuse and / or crime, and the fear of being in an unfamiliar place with strangers. Court School helps children.... Know what is expected of them Handle feelings and fear about confronting the alleged perpetrator. Realize that the most important part of testifying is telling the truth. Through education and awareness, Court School tries to ensure that the child is not victimized by the legal system. Court School does not ask or require children to discuss their cases. The program tries to make children more comfortable so they can tell others what they know about the alleged abuse and / or crime. Court School will educate children who are expected to testify in a court proceeding and their non-offending parent(s) / guardian(s) to Criminal Court, Juvenile Court, Family Court, or Dependency Court. This two-day three hour education and awareness program is for children, ages 4-17 and their non-offending caregiver(s).  This program includes: Educational Materials to help the child learn about courtroom personnel and procedures. Discussions by individuals who have experience in the legal system. Activities to help the child become familiar and comfortable in the courtroom. Court School helps parents and guardians.... Become familiar with the mission of Court School Learn about the court process. Learn the roles of the key players in the trial. Share feelings about what has happened to their child and themselves. Ask questions. Receive information on services available to them and their children. How To Make A Referral to Court School: A referral can be made by calling Manatee Children's Services during business hours, 8 am to 5 pm weekdays.