Kit and method for demonstrating courtroom and trial procedure

DETAILED DESCRIPTION This invention represents an improved means for demonstration of courtroom and trial procedure to facilitate the elicitation of competent child testimony.
The invention overcomes certain well-known problems and deficiencies, including those outlined above.
The kit and method of this invention allows victim/witness coordinators and others to prepare children for courtroom testimony efficiently and economically, in a manner proven successful.
Easy component assembly allows the kit to simulate a variety of anticipated courtroom or testimony situations, with as many repeat simulations as needed for adequate preparation.
Transportability enhances comprehension by permitting demonstrations to be conducted in surroundings familiar to the child witness.
This invention is a therapeutic/educational kit for visual demonstration of courtroom procedure including (1) a substantially horizontal base member, having upper and lower surfaces, representing a courtroom; and (2) a plurality of interrelated members representing courtroom fixtures and figurines positioned on and above the upper surface.
The fixtures and figurines are erect in demonstration position such that they have proximal portions adjacent to the base and extend substantially upward to terminate in a distal portion above the base.
The fixtures and figurines are movable with respect to the base such that assembly, arrangement, and movement thereof alleviates apprehension and concerns associated with a courtroom appearance.
In preferred embodiments, the demonstration kit further includes means to removably engage the fixtures and figurines to the base such that they may be secured during demonstration.
In highly preferred embodiments, the securing means comprises first and second fasteners, with the first fastener being a plurality of hooks on the proximal portions of the fixtures and figurines and the second fastener being a plurality of loops on the upper surface of the base.
In preferred embodiments, four substantially vertical walls are secured to the base to form a box representing a courtroom