last summer (2024), the Summer Legal Justice Program in Compton delivered a life-changing opportunity for local youth, offering them an immersive experience in partnership with Judge Feiler and the Compton Courts. With a mission to educate and empower, the program provided participants with a deeper understanding of the legal system while fostering a sense of accountability, justice, and civic responsibility.
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Justice in Action
The program gave youth an unprecedented inside view of how the legal system operates. Participants engaged in interactive sessions that covered essential topics, including:
• Court Structure: Students learned about the different roles within the court system and how cases progress through various stages.
• Judge’s Role: Judge Filer opened the doors to his personal chambers, offering a firsthand look at the decision-making process and the responsibilities of presiding over cases.
• Jury Selection and Proceedings: Participants explored how juries are selected, where they deliberate, and the critical role they play in delivering justice.
This hands-on approach allowed students to connect with legal professionals and gain insights into the complexities of the justice system, sparking curiosity and fostering a sense of empowerment.
More Than Just Education
The impact of the program extended beyond the classroom. Students left with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with the knowledge that justice is not an abstract concept but a vital part of their communities. They learned the importance of accountability, civic engagement, and the role they can play in ensuring fairness and equity within their neighborhoods.
For many, the program served as a stepping stone toward exploring potential careers in the legal field, from becoming lawyers and judges to working in public policy or criminal justice reform.
Encouragement to Get Involved
The Summer Legal Justice Program is more than an educational initiative—it’s a call to action for young people to understand the systems that shape their communities and to take an active role in promoting justice. By inspiring youth to see themselves as future leaders and advocates, the program lays the foundation for lasting change.
We encourage other young people to seek out similar programs, whether they aspire to careers in law or simply want to make a positive impact in their communities. Programs like this demonstrate the power of knowledge, mentorship, and community collaboration in shaping a brighter future.
Together, we can inspire the next generation of change-makers to uphold justice and build a more equitable society. Stay tuned for future opportunities to get involved, and join us in making a difference!
For more information or to join future programs, contact us at scjcacademy@gmail.com

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