Community & Justice Academy
A six-week educational series presented by The Superior Court of California, County of San Bernardino. The Academy strengthens public understanding of court operations, judicial processes, and civic responsibilities — supporting transparency, trust, and constructive community engagement.
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Spring 2026 Cohort
- When: Thursdays, April 23 – May 28, 2026
- Time: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
- Where: San Bernardino Justice Center, 247 West Third Street, San Bernardino, CA 92415
- Cohort Size: Limited to 24 participants
- Applications Close: April 5th
About the Academy
What is the Community & Justice Academy?
The Community & Justice Academy connects community leaders and partners with the work of the Court. Through guided presentations and facilitated discussion, participants gain a clearer understanding of court operations, how selected legal processes work in practice, and how the public can access court information and services.
The Academy is educational and informational and provides a structured forum for respectful dialogue and feedback between the Court and the community.
What participants gain
- Clearer understanding of court operations and civic responsibilities
- Practical guidance on public resources, including website navigation and SelfHelp services
- Context for selected issues in criminal law, children and the law, and the intersection of mental health and the law
- Insight into collaborative court approaches and community partnership opportunities
- Direct engagement with Judicial Officers and subject matter experts in an educational setting
Program Goals
- Educate participants on key aspects of the justice system, including court services and online portals, jury service, selected issues in criminal law, collaborative courts, children and the law, and mental health and the law.
- Promote civic engagement and public understanding of court functions and responsibilities.
- Build relationships with local organizations, city leadership, service groups, and community and faith leaders.
- Encourage dialogue and feedback between the Court and the community in a structured environment.
Who the Academy is for
The Academy is intended for community and civic leaders, including:
- City and community leadership
- Service organizations and nonprofit leaders
- Community-based organizations
- Faith leaders and community advocates
- Partners supporting residents in areas such as safety, health, housing, and youth/family services
To support meaningful engagement, participation is limited to 24 attendees per cohort.
How the Academy works
- Six-week series held on consecutive Thursdays
- Time: 5:00–7:00 p.m.
- Presentations led by Judicial Officers, Court Subject Matter Experts and Justice Partners
- Light supper will be provided
Spring 2026 Curriculum
Introducing the Role of the Court
- Welcome, Introductions, and Overview (Judicial Sponsor[s])
- Importance of the Judicial Branch and Judicial Independence (ABOTA)
- Importance of Jury Service (ABOTA)
- Facilitated Session with Judicial Officers
Selected Issues in Criminal Law
- Bail and Pretrial Release (Judicial Officer)
- Racial Justice Act (Judicial Officer)
- District Attorney and Public Defender – Civic Outreach Efforts
Children and the Law
- Selected Issues
- Probate Guardianship (Judicial Officer)
- Family Law (Judicial Officer)
- Juvenile Justice (Judicial Officer)
- Dependency Law (Judicial Officer)
- Overview of Community Involvement Opportunities (CASA/RFA)
Mental Health and the Law
- Mental Health Diversion (Judicial Officer)
- CARE Court Overview (Possible JIM tour) (Judicial Officer)
- Collaborative Courts (Judicial Officer)
Selected Issues in Civil Law
- Civil Litigation (Judicial Officers)
- Issues in Civil Harassments
Demystifying the Court
- How The Court Is Funded And Determines Budgetary Priorities (Judicial Officer)
- Self-Help Resources
- Community Outreach and Ways to Stay Engaged
- Capstone Experience
Curriculum topics and presenters are subject to change.
Locations and Parking
San Bernardino Justice Center
247 West Third Street
San Bernardino, CA 92415
Parking: Free parking is available in the lot south of the main building.
Entry and Security: All attendees will pass through standard entry screening procedures. Please plan to arrive early to allow time for parking, check-in, and screening.
How to Apply
Participation is limited. Interested community members and leaders are invited to complete a brief application during the open application window. Input from selected participants will help shape the content to ensure it reflects community interests and goals.
Application Window: March 1 – April 5, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a cost to participate?
There is no cost to participate.
Is this program open to the public?
Interested individuals may apply. Participation is limited to support discussion and engagement.
Do I need to attend all six sessions?
While attendance at all sessions is strongly encouraged, it is not required.
Will legal advice be provided?
No. The Academy is educational and informational and does not provide legal advice.
Where is the Academy held?
Sessions are held at the San Bernardino Justice Center.
Contact
For questions about the Community & Justice Academy, please contact Judicial Services:
judicialservices@sb-court.org
The Community & Justice Academy is an educational program. Content is provided for general information and does not constitute legal advice. Program details, topics, and presenters may change. The organizers reserve the right to end a participant’s involvement if needed to support a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment.