East Side ES students take part in Cobb court mock trial

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The Cobb Judicial Circuit continued its commitment to community outreach this Friday, turning the courthouse into a classroom for 230 fifth-grade students from East Side Elementary School. As part of the ongoing “Courtroom to Classroom” initiative, students traded their textbooks for a real-life legal experience.

Friday’s session was a collaborative effort from the bench, featuring Superior Court Judges Jason D. Marbutt and Sonja N. Brown and Probate Court Chief Judge Kelli L. Wolk and Judge Tara C. Riddle. The program bridges the gap between the community and the judiciary by allowing students to participate directly in the legal process. Guided by court staff and local attorneys, the East Side students took on the responsibilities of the justice system — serving as prosecutors, defense counsel, witnesses, and jurors — during a mock trial centered on a bicycle theft case.

Judge Marbutt, a former educator, emphasized the impact of seeing the justice system up close. “As a former teacher, I enjoy the opportunity to educate students about the courts,” Judge Marbutt said. “The Courtroom to Classroom program is a great and fun way to get kids experience with the justice system.”

Judge Sonja Brown noted how the experience transforms abstract lessons into reality. “It is wonderful to see the law come to life for these students,” Judge Sonja Brown said. “They aren’t just reading about a trial; they are living it, and that experience fosters a deeper understanding of fairness that textbooks alone cannot provide.”

Beyond the verdict, the field trip offered students a comprehensive look at courthouse operations. The group explored the infrastructure of the judicial complex, including a visit to the secure holding areas, providing a stark and memorable reality of the justice system.

Judge Wolk highlighted the importance of transparency and judicial interaction with the community. “Hosting East Side Elementary was a reminder of why we serve,” Judge Wolk added. “By inviting the community in, especially our students, we build trust in our institutions and show them that the courtroom is a place for justice.”

For Judge Riddle, the event was an opportunity to foster early respect for civic duty. “These fifth graders asked insightful questions and took their roles seriously,” said Judge Riddle. “Programs like this are essential because they plant the seeds of good citizenship and show our youth that the justice system is accessible to them.”

The “Courtroom to Classroom” mock trial program is available for fourth- and fifth-grade classes, subject to docket availability. Schools and educators interested in participating in future sessions during the 2025-2026 school year should contact Erin Mendez at Erin.Mendez@cobbcounty.gov.