Mount Wachusett Community College students recently had the unique opportunity to witness the workings of the judicial system firsthand, thanks to a visit to the First District Court of Northern Worcester, more frequently known as the Gardner District Court. As part of their legal studies or paralegal courses, the students spent a morning in court, observing real proceedings and gaining a deeper understanding of the legal process.
Throughout the morning, students observed cases and learned how various court roles function. During recesses, they had the chance to participate in discussions and presentations from the Honorable Mark Goldstein, First Justice; James Korman, JD, Paralegal Program Professor; Diane Massouh, Chief Probation Officer; Terry Moran, Assistant Probation Officer; Assistant District Attorneys Amelia Ashworth and Carla Jackson, Clerk-Magistrate Sheila Harrington, and Chief Trial Court Officer Calvin Lopez. Each provided a valuable perspective, describing their roles in the judicial system, the importance of their responsibilities, and the types of cases they typically handle.
Professor Korman and Judge Goldstein, who is also a professor in the program, spoke about the importance of impartiality and compassion in delivering justice, emphasizing how each case represents real lives and issues that require a thoughtful approach. The assistant district attorneys offered insights into case preparation, and the probation officers discussed rehabilitation and the critical role of probation in supporting individuals both in pretrial probation and post-incarceration.
Students returned to campus with a renewed understanding of the court system and its impact on society. By witnessing proceedings and speaking with key players in the courtroom, they gained insight into potential career paths and a better appreciation of the intricacies involved in the pursuit of justice. Experiences like this exemplify MWCC’s commitment to providing practical learning opportunities that prepare students for meaningful careers.