JUDICIAL BRANCH EXPLAINED
What do you really know about Washington’s courts? This fall, Teach with TVW brings you The Judicial Branch EXPLAINED — a brand-new video series that tackles the most common misconceptions about the courts.From “What does the judicial branch do?” to “How does bail work?”, our short 5–7 minute episodes break down key concepts with real judges and courtroom insights. You’ll also find stand-alone videos explaining each level of Washington’s courts — from District Courts to the State Supreme Court. QUESTIONS TO THE COURT SERIES Washington State has a tripartite system of government; our three branches of government check and balance one another. Theoretically no branch of government is more powerful than the others, however it can be a delicate balance. Check out how people answer the question “What is the most powerful branch?” Essential Question: Discussion Questions: Lesson Plan: Coming Soon! “What does the judicial branch do” seems like an easy question to answer. But, because the judicial branch has many responsibilities, it can be challenging to sum up with a single answer. Check out how some of Washington’s judges clarify the public’s perception of their jobs. Essential Question: Discussion Questions: Courts of Limited Jurisdiction and Superior Courts hear both criminal and civil cases. Various people on the street had a clear understanding of the differences between the two. Scholars, however, add to the narrative by explaining the reasoning why some offenses are part of the criminal code and why some are civil matters. Essential Question: Discussion Questions: Most people can describe the basic differences between a prosecutor and a public defender, but do people know how they work together to protect the rule of law? In this video, hear the Office of Public Defense and the King County Prosecutor’s office explain how their offices are bound by the Revised Code of Washington and the Constitution to protect Washingtonian’s rights and their safety. Essential Question: Discussion Questions: Lesson Plan: Coming Soon! There are many steps that one must go through if they are arrested for breaking a law. In this video, Deputy Prosecutor Kelly Harris walks you through those steps from arraignment to sentencing. Essential Question: Discussion Questions: How much do you know about the juvenile justice system in Washington State? The juvenile courts are a division of the Superior Courts, and they focus solely on juvenile issues. The courts address both civil and criminal cases; the civil cases are primarily truancy, child welfare, and family services. When judges are dealing with juvenile offender cases, there is a concerted focus on rehabilitation, recognizing that youth’s brain development is still occurring and there needs to be a different form of sentencing happening than in adult court. Hear Thurston County judge, Indu Thomas, explain her work as a Superior Court judge in the juvenile division. Essential Question: Discussion Questions: The Constitution is the highest law in the state, and no law can go against the Constitution. One of the jobs the Supreme Court is tasked with is deciding whether specific laws that are brought before them are Constitutional or…