By Don Steen ~ Staff Writer • [email protected]
Judge Jon Dartt had a little help Thursday, if only for that morning. Hannah Baker, recipient of this year’s “Judge for a Day” experience, called the court to order, sat in on all the morning’s proceedings, and even got a chance to engage with the day’s business.
“I got to argue a little bit,” said Baker. “My specialty.”
Before donning her robes, Baker was intent on becoming a marine biologist. Judge Dartt hopes the experience of sitting in as a judge might broaden her horizons into the legal world as well.
“She’s done a great job,” he said.
Dartt added that the “Judge for a Day” program aims to educate participants in all the work that goes into keeping the circuit court running, as well as cultivate a respect for all the gears of justice in one’s community. Baker earned her time on the bench through her grandmother, who won the opportunity at The Way of Rockport’s last Nosh and Nod. Those interested in securing such a prize for the next go around should mark their calendar for the next Nosh and Nod on November 2.
While Baker had to surrender her robe at the end of the day, she did get to keep her gavel. It was that very gavel that brought order in the court last week, from beginning to end of session.
Featured Image: Hannah Baker poses with Judge Jon Dartt at the “Judge for a Day” experience on Thursday