Court Observation & Reflection: This assignment provides students with firsthand exposure to the legal system and courtroom procedures while helping them identify opportunities for forensic social work practice, advocacy, ethical intervention, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students will critically examine how courts address justice, rehabilitation, behavioral health, and systemic inequities. Court Observation Requirements Students must attend one court session in person in: • Durham, • Raleigh, • Chapel Hill, • or surrounding areas with instructor approval. Students are strongly encouraged to attend: • Mental Health Court • Drug/Recovery Court • Veteran’s Court • Other Problem-Solving Courts If unavailable, students may attend: • Criminal Court • Juvenile Court • Family Court • Immigration Court • Civil Court (with approval) Observation Expectations Students should observe: • Courtroom procedures and structure • Professional roles and interactions • Judicial communication styles • Client/respondent experiences • Equity and access concerns • Behavioral health or social service issues • Ethical dilemmas and systemic barriers • The role of advocacy and rehabilitation Reflection Paper Requirements • 3–4 pages • APA 7th edition • Double-spaced • Include critical reflection and course integration Suggested Reflection Areas Students should discuss: 1. Description of the court setting and proceedings 2. Roles of professionals observed 3. Evidence of forensic social work principles 4. Human rights and ethical issues observed 5. Impact of systemic inequalities or barriers 6. Reactions to courtroom interactions and procedures 7. Connections to course concepts and future practice 8. Recommendations for improving justice or support systems Evaluation Criteria Students will be evaluated on: • Depth of observation • Critical reflection • Application of forensic social work concepts • Ethical and human rights analysis • Integration of course material • Professional writing and APA formatting