Courtroom Etiquette
This is the proper way to address a judge when you are speaking to them.
The first thing you should do if you know you're going to be late for a meeting with your PO.
Call or text them immediately.
True or False: If you delete a photo from your story, the police can never see it.
False. If you post it, it's permanent; it can be recovered.
This is the "rule of thumb" for how long you should wait before reacting when you're angry.
The 10-Second Rule. Taking just 10 seconds to breath allows your "logical brain" to catch up with your "emotional brain" before you do something you regret.
This word means you are being "released" from a program or probation.
True or False: You should look at your phone while the judge or your lawyer is talking.
False. Even if you are just checking the time, it looks like you aren't taking the situation seriously. Keep the phone off and put away.
True or False: Your PO's main job is to try and "catch" you doing something wrong.
False. While they do monitor you, their main job is to help you finish your requirements so you can get off probation and move forward.
Posting a photo holding a weapon or illegal substance is a bad idea for this reason.
It can be used as evidence. Even if it's a "fake" weapon or a joke, it gives the court a reason to think you're violating your probation terms.
When you are with a group of friends, your brain is more likely to do this.
Take risks. Science shows that teen brains "crave" peer approval so much that they often ignore danger when friends are watching.
A "restitution" payment is money that goes to this person.
The victim. If you broke something or stole something, restitution is your way of "making it right" by paying for the damage.
Ask for clarification. Judges would much rather you ask a question than nod your head and agree to something you don't actually understand.
If you are struggling with school, work, or things at home, you should tell this person.
Your Probation Officer. They can often connect you with tutors, jobs, or counseling that can help take the pressure off of you.
This "feature" on your cell phone can tell the police exactly where you were when you took a photo.
Location Tags (Geotagging). Your phone saves the "GPS coordinates" of where photos were taken. This can prove you were somewhere you weren't supposed to be.
This term describes thinking about the consequences of an action before you actually do it.
Forethought. It's like playing a movie in your head: "If I do this, then that will happen. It's a skill you can practice.
If you are asked to do "community service," it means you are doing this.
Unpaid work for a non-profit organization. It's a way to give back to the community and show that you are a positive part of where you live.
When the judge enters or leaves the room, everyone in the courtroom is expected to do this.
Stand up. This is a traditional sign of respect for the law.
This document lists every single thing you need to do to successfully complete probation.
The Probation Order. Keep this document on your phone or fridge. It's your "checklist" for freedom.
If you are "tagged" in a video of a fight or a crime, can you get in trouble?
Yes. Being associated with a crime on social media can lead to an investigation, even if you weren't the one "doing" the crime.
If you feel like you're about to lose your cool, doing this physical action can help calm your nervous system.
Deep breathing. Deep breaths send a signal to your brain that you are safe, which physically lowers your heart rate and anger levels.
If a judge says you are "amenable to treatment," it's a good thing because it means this.
You are willing and able to change. It means the court believes you can succeed in the juvenile system.
This "body language" habit can make it look like you are angry or uninterested, even if you're just nervous.
Slouching or crossing arms. Sitting up straight and keeping your hands visible shows that you are engaged and listening to what is being said.
If you disagree with something your PO is asking you to do, you should handle it this way.
Talk to them calmly or tell your lawyer. Getting angry or yelling usually makes the situation worse. Use your words or let your lawyer handle the legal side.
Harassment or Cyberbullying. Words online have real-world consequences. A single "angry" DM can lead to a new court date.
Identifying your "triggers" means knowing these specific things.
Situations or people that make you upset. If you know that a certain person always gets you into trouble, "making a better choice" might mean avoiding that person entirely.