Justice Camp Returns in Person

The 2022 Campers, along with co-Chairs Judge Janice van Meerveld and Scott Sternberg.

The Federal Bar Association-New Orleans’ Chapter’s fifth year of “Justice Camp” returned to in-person instruction this year, running from July 19 to July 23, 2022. After two years of “virtual” camp, the campers were thrilled to return to in-person instruction, as were the speakers. The co-Chairs for 2022 were Judge Janis van Meerveld and Scott Sternberg, a local attorney.

Featured speakers included: United States Attorneys and Public Defenders, Federal Judges, and local practitioners discussing various aspects of the justice system. This year also included a new element — a field trip to the Louisiana Supreme Court and lunch out at the Napoleon House. It also expanded from three days to four days.

The New Orleans Chapter of the Federal Bar Association has taken the concept of summer camp into the federal courthouse, imparting civics education and advocacy skills that prepare students for college, career, and civic engagement. The program celebrated its fifth year in 2022, and is held at the Eastern District of Louisiana Courthouse in downtown New Orleans. NOFBA’s Justice Camp program encourages 9th and 10th graders to learn about the legal system, including careers within that system, and to develop basic advocacy skills in a fun, interesting, and interactive format. The camp will conclude in a mock trial.

Sessions will include overviews of the federal court system, safety on the Internet, implicit bias in jury trials, and the rights of privacy, to assistance of counsel, free speech, and other constitutional rights.

To ensure everyone has equal opportunity to participate in NOFBA’s Justice Camp, there is no cost to attend. Free lunch and snacks will be provided for all attendees. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required. If transportation expenses are a hindrance to attendance, reach out with a request for assistance. Email fbaneworleans@gmail.com with any questions.

To learn more about Justice Camp, check out our Justice Camp Page.