Tips on Technology

Christmas Starts Early

by Richard K. Herrmann, Esquire

The subject on this month’s column is not on technology. It is on education and entertainment. For years we have been talking about educating the jury, through the use of graphics and media, so that they understand the case and are interested in the proceedings. They will retain more. My focus has been on educating the jury, the bench and the bar – until now.

I am pleased to report that members of the bench and bar are preparing for a trial to begin the week of December 13, 2004. This is not a typical hearing. In fact, it is being prepared for public school children throughout the State. On trial will be the one and only Kris Kringle. We have been successful in obtaining permission from 20th Century Fox for the State to reenact the courtroom scene of the classic film Miracle on 34th Street. The hearing will be presented 12 times, six at the New Castle Courthouse, three presentations at the Courthouse in Dover and three in Georgetown. The response from the schools has been incredible. The event was completely booked in all three counties within 24 hours.

The Honorable Henry duPont Ridgely, recently appointed to the Supreme Court of the State of Delaware, will preside. He has indicated that he “hopes the hundreds of children participating in the re-creation will learn about the legal system first hand and in a holiday spirit. “ Justice Ridgely signed onto the project as President Judge of the Superior Court and has agreed to continue his role as trial judge one more time. In a recent meeting, he noted, “it is not unusual for a Supreme Court Justice to be designated to participate at the trial level when circumstances require,” and that he “cannot think of a better cause.”

Attorney General M. Jane Brady intends to be on hand to represent the State in this important case. According to the Attorney General, “I am a firm believer in educating children early. The more they understand the justice system, the easier it is for them to live within the rules. This presentation is a tremendous vehicle to teach basic court procedure to the kids throughout the State.”

Kris Kringle’s counsel, Vincent J. Poppiti, partner at Blank Rome LLP and formerly Chief Judge of the Family Court, is used to dealing with children. According to Mr. Poppiti, “All too often children only see the unfortunate or sad aspects of the legal system. The system is really very positive and has much to offer. This will provide a real civic experience to all.”

And of course there is Kris Kringle. But you already know about him.

The event is being presented under the direction of Thomas J. Russo, president of DOE Technologies, Inc., a Delaware technology firm that has strong ties to the Delaware legal community. Tom looks at the project as a wonderful way to give back to the Delaware legal community.

If you think that this column reads like a press release, you are not far off. I am very proud of not only the project and but also the interest and time dedicated by all concerned. Hopefully you will see some positive press about this event. This is an opportunity to educate children and for the bench and bar to participate in that process. Assuming that Kris Kringle is successful, this should be a “win-win” for everyone.

Of course, we all know, there are no guaranties as to the outcome of litigation. What if Kris loses? Will they really put him away? Who will deliver all of those presents? I think I better think this out again. . . . . .

Return to September 2004 Table of Contents.