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Written by Joe Ann Floyd
Simpson County Law & Public Safety classes visited the courthouse and jail. District attorney, Chris Hennis, discussed his role in representing the districts in which he serves in the criminal justice system. Students learned that his duties typically include reviewing police arrest reports, deciding whether to bring criminal charges against arrested people, and prosecuting criminal cases in court. Students learned that the district attorney can decide whether criminal charges are brought to court, which cases are dismissed or diverted from court, and — to some extent — the sanctions that people convicted of crimes will face.
Also, Tim Gray, Chancery Court Clerk, discussed how he is responsible for attending all sessions of Chancery Court and keeping all minute books in which records and directions of the judge and court proceedings are kept. He records and preserves all land records recordable in the county.
Jamie Brewer, Tax Assessor informs students that her job includes appraising all land and buildings and other permanent improvements that contribute value to the land. Mrs. Brewer explained what homestead exemptions filed in the assessor’s office benefit property owners.
Students learned important information from Will Fortenberry, Circuit Clerk, who provides a wide variety of services to the Circuit and County Courts and the public, including voter registration, election information, jury duty, and marriage licenses. Attorney to the District Attorney, Stephanie Wood talked to students concerning how suspected sexual offender cases are handled.
Students also toured the Simpson County Jail at the Sheriff’s Department and saw first-hand how offenders are housed. It was a very educational insight into how the criminal justice system operates.
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