I didn’t attend the court observation but I was able to join the live stream. Even though the live stream was a little  laggy or maybe it was my wifi, I was able to see it. I like how the attorneys would go back and forth with each other. They looked formal and they were well prepared. And I know it take a lot to be well organized and well-prepare to go against someone. This is something I enjoyed and wished I was there to observe rather than online. I also watched the case with Kyle Rittenhouse I believe was the name and I saw how his attorney was ready and formal. He was also formal and prepared to make Kyle look good.  Looking at this made me realize that I like this and it could be something I would like to do. 

 After visiting the court house I noticed that it did give me a better understanding of what goes on in this field work. Something that I found interesting was how dismissive the judges were. They almost showed some signs of them not even wanting to be there, they were very fast and direct. I also noticed that with this behavior from the judges it affected some of the attorneys. They would freeze up sometimes or repeatedly say “um”. I think that this visit put a more serious and real perspective of this career path in my head. It was very clear how hard working these attorneys were, especially one that stood out to me which was the guy who had two cases back to back. Having cases like that should sound a little stressful but he was able to clearly and firmly get through his position, while keeping it short and directly to the point. Which seemed like what the judges liked. One thing that I do wish to understand a little bit more is how these attorneys prepare for their cases because this is not something we quite see in the court. I’m pretty sure it takes a lot to prepare for cases and make sure you know everything that you’re doing. As well as feeling comfortable while presenting the case because if not that’s something the judges might notice. Overall I feel like this was a very important experience for me because it opened me up to what my life may be like if I chose to continue down this career path. 

I watch the court case on zoom. A big thing I noticed was how swiftly the judges and attorneys moved about things. Everything was very straight to the point. Everyone knew exactly what was going on, without any confusion. With the number of cases judges see per day, I would have thought they would need to be refreshed oh much each case was about, however, they were very informed on everything going on.

I found going to the court house a few weeks ago to be very interesting and an experience to remember. It was interesting to see how different attorneys responded to the judges and how assertive they were when the spoke. The judges were very straight to the point and didn’t have time to waste. I also noticed how the judges were well aware about the case before hand and seem to know what they would be asking the attorney. It was a very educational moment to watch with my own eyes.

The court observation a few weeks back was very interesting and eye-opening! As Professor Coughlin mentioned, it was definitely as if walking into a movie halfway through but overall I had a great experience. It was exciting to witness scenarios we have discussed in class and watch the lawyers in action defending actual cases. I did not expect the tension between Justices and attorneys at certain points but it makes complete sense. The Justices are hearing case after case all day, every day. If their time is being wasted, they will (and should!) make it known. It was entertaining to be able to witness a “hot bench” and watch them all interacting with each case.

Currently, in the program at City Tech, my goal is to be a paralegal rather than a lawyer. This experience did not change that much, I still think being behind the scenes is more appealing for me! Although it made me realize that if I end up being a lawyer that heads to court I will need to make sure I am as prepared as possible for the courtroom. There is no room for error!