Become a Volunteer

We Need Your Help

Did you know that every 12 seconds a woman is beaten and every 6 hours a DV (domestic violence) fatality occurs in our country? Florida Department of Law Enforcement statistics reveal that in 2006, Florida averaged a DV fatality every 48 hours. Orange County reported 8,451 DV crimes (with 15 fatalities) and Seminole County reported 2,038 (with 5 fatalities) for the year. Domestic violence affects up to 50% of all families in the US today, and in about 50% of these households, the children are physically abused as well.

According to a past director of the Office on Violence Against Women, "the number one way to reduce domestic violence is to have CourtWatch programs in every community across the US."

The primary objective of CourtWatch is to make those involved in the judicial process aware of public interest and concern about the outcome of DV cases and, through the program's observations and assessment, to advocate for needed community services for families involved in domestic violence. This takes involved people.

According to court personnel in other communities, CourtWatchers "serve a good function. People perform better, are more thoughtful and 'on their toes' when CourtWatchers are there." They have asked, "Where have you been?" "You should have seen Judge so-and-so the other day. He was over the top! It would have been so much better if you were there." This is what happens if no one is watching....

It is easy and convenient to be a volunteer CourtWatcher. You can go as often or little as you wish. You will meet new people and have an opportunity to see how the court system works. You don't even need to commit to a whole day. There are morning and afternoon sessions. You would observe court for 3-4 hours once or twice a month - the schedule is flexible.

If you are interested in participating in this important and interesting community service program, please email volunteers@courtwatchflorida.org or click on the "Class Registration" link above. Your presence is felt in the court. It requires only your time and commitment.

Additionally, if you know of a civic organization that would be interested in hearing about this initiative, we would be delighted to schedule a presentation. Email your request to volunteers@courtwatchflorida.org.

We look forward to "seeing you in court."

UCF Internships Available

We are working with several members of the UCF faculty in the Criminal Justice, Sociology and Women's Studies Departments to be included in their curriculum. If a student is working to achieve a Certificate of Victim Advocacy, they are required to participate as a CourtWatcher for one semester. An on-campus training session will be available for UCF students each term. Inquires welcome.

Other Internships Welcome

Not a UCF student or faculty member? We welcome the opportunity to discuss our internship program with you. Please contact us.