Though sometimes controversial, it was created to give all Americans the right of equal justice. Some may argue that the system is not successful, but few will claim that a fairer system exists elsewhere. In any case, understanding the workings of the courtroom, the courthouse, and the system is vital to maintaining and improving the American ideal of equal justice. The Court Tours Program offers free guided tours of the criminal and civil courts for students, seniors citizens and civic or religious groups. The tours are available in every borough and in counties outside the City.
Some tours even offer the opportunity for students to participate in a mock trial.
Interested groups may request a certain type of court or to focus a tour on one of the many activities that take place within the judicial system. Juvenile delinquency and child abuse. Landlord and tenant law. Current problems in the criminal justice system. These services, the tours and lectures, are valuable to any group wanting to know more about what's going on and why.