7 Reasons to Leave the Party

By Krista Maeder, kmaeder@ajs.org
 

In 2007 a judge in the Eighth Judicial Circuit of Illinois, Mark A. Drummond, set out to deliver a program using rap music, photos and true stories to underscore the message that there are serious consequences to teen activities such as drinking and driving. 

The goal of this program, “7 Reasons to Leave the Party: Death, No Trust, No Money, No Car, Criminal Record, No Time and No Privacy“ is to get Illinois teens to sign a “contract” with their parent/guardian indicating they will avoid drinking, taking drugs and engaging in other unlawful activities which could hurt their chances of success and prosperity in adulthood and a healthy, happy lifestyle.  In return parents agree to commit to their child’s health and safety through a safe and sober ride home and be available to discuss the situation in a calm and caring manner.  The “contract” is a way to underscore a message that aims to encourage teens to consider the consequences of their actions, and choose wisely.

100 judges, including Appellate justices and a Supreme Court justice, have taken a two-hour training that enables them to deliver the program in their community.  Following the in-person training, judges receive a PowerPoint presentation to show, a display banner, fliers/contracts, and prizes for distribution. 

During a 50 minute live presentation with parents and teens, a judge walks attendees through a typical teenage house party where illegal activity is taking place.  Photos depict the worst-case scenario (death) to the effects that long-term drug use has on physical appearance.  At the conclusion of the program, teens are given a flyer with the ‘7 Reasons to Leave the Party’ listed on one side and a contract to be made between parents and students on the other. 

Judge Drummond, who continues to deliver the program in his district, also conducts periodic trainings in Chicago for judges who want to present the program.  Judge Rita M. Novak and Judge Nancy Schuster Waites, co-chairs of the "7 Reasons to Leave" committee, are in the process of updating and customizing the program to reflect demographics of particular geographic regions.  Since September 2007, “7 Reasons to Leave” has been presented to over 50,000 students throughout the state. 

The "7 Reasons to Leave the Party" program was presented to the American Judicature Society for consideration of a Special Merit Citation.  This award allows for recognition of projects and efforts that benefit some aspect of the judicial system, including those that are narrowly focused or time specific.  The Award recognizes individuals, publications, state or local courts, organizations and educational institutions the make a significant contribution toward improving the justice system. 

Some qualifications needed in order to be considered for a Special Merit Citation include increasing public education about the administration of justice; making advances in court management; fostering the interest and understanding of the role of the judicial branch of government; and/or representing the ideal of interested lay citizen participation in strengthening the ties between the justice system and the public.

AJS felt this program meet the qualifications and on December 11, 2009, during a joint meeting of the Illinois State Bar Association and the Illinois Judges Association, the Eighth Judicial Circuit and the Illinois Judges Association was presented with a Special Merit Citation.  Distinguished Lifetime Director Dawn Clark Netsch was on hand to make the presentation. Pictured with her are Judge Ronald D. Spears, president of the Illinois Judges Association (left), and Hon. Mark A. Drummond.