Weihai Court Pioneers Holistic Juvenile Justice System with Innovative “Xinlei of Law” Program
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A comprehensive approach to juvenile justice, prioritizing prevention, rehabilitation, and long-term support, is taking root in Weihai City, Shandong Province, as the High District Court implements its groundbreaking “Xinlei of Law” (心雷) brand. This initiative extends beyond traditional courtroom proceedings, embedding legal education and support systems directly within schools and communities.
The program’s origins were sparked by a simple, yet powerful, question from students: “Judge, we also want to participate in the moot court.” This desire for engagement, voiced after a “rule of law script killing” exercise – a form of legal education and entertainment – underscored the need for more accessible and relatable legal education for young people.
Building a Full-Chain Protection System
In recent years, the Weihai High District Court has actively integrated its efforts with the city’s broader strategy for managing juvenile crime. The court has constructed a “full-chain protection system” encompassing front-end prevention, robust trial protection, and comprehensive end-end assistance. This multifaceted approach aims to not only address legal infractions but also to illuminate “the path to healthy growth for minors,” as described by court officials.
A cornerstone of “Xinlei of Law” is the establishment of a “vice-principal system for the rule of law.” Twelve experienced judges and judge assistants have been assigned as rule of law vice principals and propagandists to 16 primary and secondary schools within the jurisdiction. This direct engagement allows for proactive legal education and early intervention.
Judge Assistant Wang Haonan’s innovative “script-killing” legal courses, which incorporate themes like preventing campus bullying and crime prevention into engaging narratives, have proven particularly popular with students. The court also provides opportunities for young people to observe court hearings and participate in role-playing exercises, offering a “zero distance” experience with the judicial process. Furthermore, rule of law micro videos are enriching a “cloud rule of law classroom,” providing students with a portable “legal knowledge power bank.”
Expanding Protection Through Collaboration
To further strengthen the protective barrier for minors, the Weihai High District Court partnered with the Women’s Federation, Educational Sports Bureau, Public Security, Procuratorate, and Judicial Administration in 2023. This collaboration led to the establishment of “Campus Safety Offices” in all 16 schools, providing dispute resolution assistance and expert input on school regulations.
“Each case may be related to a child’s life direction,” stated a senior official at the court. “What we have to do is not only to hear the case, but also to protect the future.” This sentiment underscores the program’s commitment to holistic care.
Innovative Trial Concepts and Post-Judgment Support
The Weihai High District Court is actively evolving its trial methodologies. Social investigation, psychological counseling, and family education guidance are now integral components of the process, ensuring a three-dimensional understanding of each case and the needs of the minor involved. The court emphasizes a shift in thinking, prioritizing the protection of minors even during trials unrelated to juvenile offenses, and consistently adhering to the principle of “punishment, rescue, and protection” in criminal cases involving young people.
Judicial protection doesn’t end with a verdict. The court collaborates with education, women’s federation, and other departments to develop personalized assistance plans for minors, whether in custody or on probation. Close attention is paid to the rehabilitation and psychological dynamics of those in custody, while those sentenced to non-custodial sentences receive support with resuming schooling and finding employment.
For minors and families who have experienced harm, the court actively pursues compensation through mediation and legal judgment, leveraging judicial relief mechanisms to address financial hardship and emotional trauma.
From engaging legal education to compassionate trials and targeted post-judgment assistance, the Weihai High District Court’s “Xinlei of Law” brand is extending the reach of justice to every aspect of minor protection. A carefully constructed framework for growth, built on the foundation of the rule of law, is steadily unfolding.
