The Junior District Attorney Program is designed to develop a range of skills, boost participants’ confidence, and inspire career aspirations. By engaging youth in a proactive and meaningful way, where they observe and experience the operation of the criminal justice system firsthand and interact with attorneys, law enforcement, judges, and other criminal justice professionals, they can build relationships that will be beneficial for future job searches and career advice.

Some of the programs focus on developing critical legal skills, courtroom etiquette, public speaking, and case analysis. Participants will gain insight into and understand the importance of the ethical and professional responsibilities involved in the criminal justice system and public service. They met with Judges and witnessed the conclusion of a case when the verdict was delivered. They toured the detention center, observed live calls at 911 dispatch, toured the Sheriff’s department and met our State Representative. Additionally, they heard from a School Safety Representative, the Office of the Medical Examiner and the Taos Police Department.

Upcoming presentations will include discussions defense counsel, a Taos News reporter covering justice issues, and other partners. Each week, participants learn about the various functions of the District Attorney’s office, from case initiation to courtroom proceedings. They are currently working on their own case and will conclude the program with a mock trial.

Student's Demographics: The first section of the new program includes fifteen students from Taos High School in 9th, 10th and 11th grades.

Goals: The Junior District Attorney Program emphasizes leadership, encouraging students to be positive influences and role models in the schools by demonstrating the importance of making informed decisions and understanding the consequence of poor choices.

The program allows us, and our law enforcement partners, to build stronger relationships with our youth and connect them with resources outside the classroom. We aim to reinforce the message that if they see something, they should say something, and that they are the role models guiding their peers. The expected outcome is to inspire meaningful changes in our youth, contributing to a safer community and a better-informed public.