Courtroom Observation Assignment Goals of Assignment: To enhance your understanding of the substantive law and procedural rules governing the resolution of legal disputes in Arizona To foster the development of a critical perspective about the operation of courts, including an ability to differentiate between "law in the books" and "law in operation." Assignment: A. Court Observation You are responsible to observe proceedings in a city (Glendale, Surprise, Peoria), county (Maricopa), state (Arizona) or federal (United States) court for a 2-1/2 to 3-hour session. If you tell me what type of case you are interested in or what part of town is most convenient I will help you find a location. Information concerning scheduling, location, and other details for a sampling of courts is included at the bottom of this assignment. You may, however, observe proceedings in any court hearing in Arizona. Whatever court you choose, please dress appropriately for court; introduce yourself to the judge, if possible; and, of course, treat all court personnel with courtesy and respect. B. Written Narrative After your observation, prepare a 2 to 4 page, typed, double-spaced description and analysis of what you observed. The narrative should include: 1. Date and time of your observation; name of court and judge you observed. 2. Type of hearing(s) observed. 3. Describe the content of the hearing(s): the evidence and arguments presented at the hearing; whether the parties were represented by counsel or appeared pro se (represented themselves). 4. Comment on the performance of the attorneys (if any) and judge and describe the judge's decision(s). Also, please provide your reflections/analysis of the observation, including commentary about how the observation relates to class assignments and discussions.