Civics Break: A Course on the Judiciary with Duke Law and Citizen Travelers

In this four-part course presented with Duke Law, Melinda Vaughn, Deputy Director of the Bolch Judicial Institute, and Janice Brunner, Group General Counsel and Head of Civic Engagement at Travelers, explore the foundations of the United States Judiciary, how a judge’s job works and the role we all play in the judicial system.  

You can attend one, two or all four sessions. Sessions do not build on each other, so you can participate in any combination that suits your schedule. Watch all four to receive a certification of completion. All sessions will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. ET on Mondays from March 3 through March 24, 2025. 

Part 1: Monday, March 3, 1:00-2:00 p.m. 
The Rule of Law and the Foundations of the Judiciary
This course explores the rule of law and the constitutional foundation of the U.S. judicial system. The U.S. Constitution outlines a government system that balances power among three branches. Gain a better understanding of the powers and responsibilities of the judicial branch, how the judiciary and U.S. law have developed over time, and how state and federal courts work together to resolve disputes, protect our individual rights and liberties, and uphold the rule of law. 

Part 2: Monday, March 10, 1:00-2:00 p.m.  
Understanding the Judge’s Job
This course discusses the roles, responsibilities and decision-making processes of judges. We’ll explore the various ways federal and state judges get their jobs, what it means to be fair and impartial, and the legal principles, ethical codes, traditions and guidelines that constrain judicial decision-making. 

Part 3: Monday, March 17, 1:00-2:00 p.m. 
The Courts and You
This course explores the vital role of citizens in engaging with the judicial system. Understand the types of jury service, opportunities to voice support or reform the courts, and how to become an educated consumer of judicial news and information. From serving as a juror to voting to sharing accurate news, American citizens have the right and responsibility to engage with the courts and ensure that the judicial branch fulfills its constitutional obligations. 

Part 4: Monday, March 24, 1:00-2:00 p.m. 
Panel Q&A with Judge Grimm and Judge Collins
This course provides the opportunity for a live Q&A with North Carolina Court of Appeals Judge Allegra Collins and U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland retired Judge Paul Grimm. Explore the topics reviewed in previous courses more deeply and dive into the day-to-day work of a judge and the structure and role of the courts. 

These discussions are part of our Civic Conversations series in which Citizen Travelers^SM – Travelers’ industry-leading, nonpartisan civic engagement initiative – and the Travelers Institute^® are teaming up to host conversations among leading thinkers in the areas of civic engagement and civic learning. Stay tuned for more discussions featuring thought leaders in this dynamic space and thank you for supporting Citizen Travelers at the Travelers Institute. 

Learn more about Citizen Travelers.  

Speakers

Host

Janice Brunner
Group General Counsel and Head of Civic Engagement, Travelers