On August 25, the NC Commission on the Administration of Law and Justice hosted a public forum in Charlotte, one of several held across the state that month.  These meetings offered an opportunity for citizens to share their concerns, issues, and recommendations for reforming NC's judicial systems.   One of the most commented upon issues at the Charlotte meeting was that of the need to "raise the age" of  juvenile court jurisdiction.  

North Carolina is one of only two states that still requires the prosecution of all 16- and 17- year-olds accused of a crime in the adult criminal justice system. This law deprives children of proper services, increases the likelihood children will recidivate, and reduces the likelihood they will pursue employment and higher education.  

Among those who spoke with passion, compassion and conviction on the issue were Council's ED Bob Simmons, members of our community partner  The Children's Alliance,   concerned individuals, public defenders, judges and others.   

Council Seeks Special Education Attorney 

September is Attendance Awareness Month

Did you know that at least one out of every 10 students in the United States misses 10 percent of the school year? That's the point when absences--excused or unexcused--start to add up to academic trouble. These attendance gaps lead to achievement gaps. Starting in kindergarten, chronic absence leads to 3rd graders unable to read well. By 6th grade, it's a warning sign that students will fail classes or even drop out of high school. So let's all work together to make sure all kids attend today so they can achieve tomorrow.  #schooleveryday #attendancematters

United Way of Central Carolinas
12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Legal Aid of North Carolina is offering state-wide workshop to help families understand their legal rights in the North Carolina public school system. Learn about school discipline issues like suspension and expulsion, special education, and the rights and protections available to children with special needs.  Council staff will also be participating in the Charlotte event and will be available to answer your questions. Free - but registration is required and space is limited.  Read More

Nascar Hall Of Fame
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Young Ambassadors Group of Council for Children's Rights invites you to join them for their premiere fundraising event of the year. P layers compete in teams of ten, answering questions derived from the CMS middle school curriculum. It's fast, fun and helps raise money and awareness for a great cause.   Tickets and information

Children & Family Services Center - Room 520
12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. 

The First Wednesday Series kicks off a new season of training workshops that offer an opportunity for parents, family members, and professionals who advocate for children to learn about special education and school discipline.

The first session will focus on Special Education Eligibility.  In this workshop, you'll get a bird's-eye view of a child's journey through the special education process.  Free, but registration requested - and feel free to bring your lunch!   Read more

Children & Family Services Center - Training Room 1
8:30 a.m. - 5:00 pm 

Our semi-annual day-long training session for those who are interested in volunteering with the Council's Custody Advocacy program.  We are looking for both attorneys who are interested in  pro bono  representation of children, as well as paralegals and other community members who are interested in serving as custody advocates.   A great experience and a great way to give back! Information and Registration

Mint Museum of Art-Uptown

5:30 p.m. 

The area's largest recipients of pro bono services, Council for Children's Rights, Legal Services of Southern Piedmont and Legal Aid of North Carolina-Charlotte, will host the fifth annual Pro Bono Awards Tuesday, October 25. The annual event honors local attorneys and advocates who have generously given their time and expertise to local under-served children, families and individuals in legal crisis. Details to follow.