Through the Court Visitation Program, Connecticut middle and high schools can arrange for students to visit a local criminal court. The Court Visitation Program is jointly coordinated by the Connecticut Bar Association and the Connecticut Judicial Branch.
A typical court visit consists of a tour of the courthouse or lock up area, an explanation of court proceedings by a judge or member of the court staff, and observation of court proceedings such as arraignments, sentencings, or sometimes a trial. Since its inception in 1980, over 100,000 students from public and private middle and high schools throughout the state have participated in the program.
An Attorney Coordinator for each Geographical Area Court works with court clerks and school personnel to select a date and ensure a judge or other court personnel is available to speak with students. In addition, an Attorney Guide accompanies students throughout their court visit and answers student questions during the court visit.