Pattengill Students Experience the Justice 101 Program

Judge Derek Meinecke, a judge for the 44th District Court, spent time with Pattengill fifth graders on Tuesday and Wednesday, May 28 and 29. Judge Meinecke visited students at school to discuss aspects of the judicial branch of government, including explaining legal terminology. He was also there to prepare the students for their courthouse visit the following day. As part of the lessons, Judge Meinecke assigned the students homework.

The next day students visited the 44th District Court and observed the Court's misdemeanor probation docket in person. After observing the docket, students visited the new Royal Oak Police Station. Judge Meinecke also made sure to call on each student during court to report on their homework assignment.

This visit is part of the Justice 101 program which was started by the local 44th District Court for Royal Oak and Berkley students. The goal of this program is to teach students about the court system and to provide context and understanding for the field trip to the 44th District Court.