Leadership in Law Program Provides Hands-On Legal Career Experience to High School Students

June marks another session of Leadership in Law, a program that has been operating for over 16 years under the direction of Judge McLaughlin. This year, 11 students from local high schools are participating in the initiative, which aims to give young people interested in legal careers direct exposure to how the criminal justice system actually works.

Photo courtesy of Prosecutor Lynn Deddens.

A Week Inside the Criminal Justice System

For 11 high school students from local schools, this week has been far more than a classroom lesson. Through the Leadership in Law program, now in its 17th year under Judge McLaughlin's direction, these young people are getting an intimate look at how the criminal justice system actually operates.

The week began with an immersive introduction to the courts themselves. Students observed initial hearings with judges McLaughlin and Cleary, then heard from a lineup of professionals explaining their roles. Prosecutor Deddens outlined how charges move through the system. State Representative Garrett Bascom discussed the legislative process that shapes the laws being enforced. Detectives Gena Allen and Derek Stevens shared what investigative work really involves, while Crime Scene Investigator Charlie Olsen explained forensic analysis. The day concluded with a K-9 demonstration that brought the reality of law enforcement home in a tangible way.

As the week progressed, students gained exposure to corners of the criminal justice system most people never see. They toured the dispatch center with 911 Director Kris Heitmeyer, watching the complex coordination that happens when emergencies are called in. They heard from Coroner Cameron McCreary about his role in both routine and suspicious deaths. A roundtable with law enforcement officers from agencies ranging from the Indiana Gaming Commission to small-town police departments gave students candid conversations about what drew these professionals to their work and what their daily responsibilities look like.

The education extended beyond the courthouse. A field trip to the Hamilton County Coroner and Crime Lab in Cincinnati gave students a behind-the-scenes look at autopsies and forensic analysis, demonstrating just how critical this work is to criminal investigations.

Wednesday brought theory into practice. Students were divided into two groups and tasked with investigating a mock crime scene. Some worked as crime scene technicians, photographing evidence and dusting for fingerprints. Others played detectives, conducting witness interviews and gathering investigative information. The experience is laying groundwork for what comes Friday: a full mock trial where students will present opening arguments, examine witnesses, introduce evidence, and make closing arguments.

Thursday brings another full day of preparation and instruction before the students finally get their chance to put it all together. For many, the week may spark a genuine interest in legal careers. For all of them, it's an opportunity to see that the system protecting their community runs on the dedication of real people doing serious work.