Meet the Herd: Jodi
Meet Jodi, our Zebra Herd’s Court Accompaniment Advocate! Jodi takes us through a typical day in her essential role on our team, her proudest moment and much more!
Q: Tell us about your role as Court Accompaniment Advocate at the Zebra Centre.
Jodi: As a Court Accompaniment Advocate, my primary role is to host children and their families/supporters at court.
Q: What does a typical “day in the life” as Court Accompaniment Advocate look like?
Jodi: Every day is different! But in general, it starts before I even leave my home in the morning, checking emails and texts as there are often last minute changes, or questions from families, etc. I meet the family at the courthouse, and escort them to a private waiting area in the court and contact the crown prosecutor to let them know we have arrived and where we are. Then the waiting games begins! There is often a lot of waiting at court for complainants and witnesses, which can be quite anxiety-provoking. I try to reduce that anxiety by explaining court processes and addressing any concerns, going over key testifying strategies, and generally being a calming presence. We may play board games or work on puzzles, etc. while we wait as well.
While they are testifying, I am either on the stand with them, or I am in the waiting area or court room supporting their family members. During breaks can be an especially emotional time for everyone, and I am there to help support everyone through those emotions, and to ensure we are following the guidelines from the justice. At the end of the day at court (which can really be any time), we often debrief and either make plans for the following day,or say our goodbyes. Throughout their time at court, I try to ensure that the family does not have to see the accused person.
After court, I provide a summary for our database and let my coworkers know if we are needed the next day, or to make plans for the next family. In the evenings, I may attend crown meetings and meet with families during court preparations.
Q: What do you love most about your role?
Jodi: Being able to help and empower children and youth and their families through what can be a very intimidating and difficult process.
Q:What is your proudest moment at the Zebra Centre so far?
Jodi: The first time I stood up in the court room and told the defense lawyer and the accused to wait—it was a break, the justice had left the courtroom and our complainant and my coworker were in a remote testimony room and I knew if the accused walked out of the courtroom they would be in view on the complainant’s screen.
Q: What motivates you to show your stripes (your why)?
Jodi: The hope that I am making a positive difference in people’s journeys toward healing.
Q: Lastly, share a surprising or fun fact about you.
Jodi: I have 9 siblings and many many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.