HomeMy WebLinkAboutTCA 1997-07-28 Minutes City of North Richland Hills
Teen Court Advisory Board Meeting
Minutes
July 28, 1997
Present Lynn Simpson, Ron Moore, Bill Moore, Sabrina Lopez
Absent Wayne Moody, Kent Choate, Kathy Graves
Meeting Called to Order 6:05
New Random Juror Selection Process Implementation
We discussed in open format the pros and cons of the new juror sign-in and setection
process. All present agreed that it is a good system and should be continued. Sabrina
stated she did not have any major problems with the jurors signing in other than
questions about why the new process.
There were no cons. However, there were a few pros. Having the juror sign in with
Sabrina prevents them from signing in and out at the same time. Also choosing the
jurors randomly prevents a jury of friends, or juror just wanting to be first, thinking once
they've served they will be able to leave early. The process also helps to supervise the
whereabouts of all jurors. The new system assures that they be present in the
courtroom when their name is called or else they will not be given credit for attendance.
This maintains order and prevents juror from loitering outside the courtroom.
New Jury Deliberation Process Implementation
There was discussion on the new jury deliberation format designed and used this court
docket. The board members present agreed that having each juror write down a fact
and the amount of hours caused greater thought by each individual and more
deliberation by the jury.
There was concerns about putting the juror comments back in to the defendant's file as
the defendant has access to that information. Once their case is complete the judge
gives the defendant the file and sends them to be processed out by the coordinator.
While waiting, the defendant and their parents have often read what was in the file.
Therefore, it has been agreed upon to allow only the judge to have possession of the
defendants folder. The only paper that the defendant will possess is his results sheet.
The judge will hold all defendant files until the completion of court.
Iron Kid Triathlon
The coordinator suggested having teen volunteer for this event for community service
hours. All members agreed this is a good idea. However, when asked who would be
Minutes: July 28, 1997 Page 2
wiiling to help supervise them if necessary, only Lynn Simpson was able to do so.
Coordinator will contact Monica for more info and bring it back to the board at the next
court session.
City Sponsored Events
The Coordinator had requested a list of all city sponsored events for any board
member. This was not obtained. Bill Moore suggested the coordinator needs to contact
the city secretary for that information
Adjournment 7:10