Citizens Academy
The Citizens Academy is a program offered by the City of St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office. This six-week experience is designed to give residents a deeper understanding of the criminal justice system and the role our office plays within it.
The Spring Session of the Citizens Academy will take place every Thursday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., beginning April 9 and concluding May 14, 2026.
Applications for the Spring 2026 Session closed on March 9, 2026.
The program is open to individuals 18 and older who reside in the Greater St. Louis area.
Courses Will Include
Introduction to the CAO & the Criminal Justice System
Learn the role of the Circuit Attorney in the criminal justice process.
Investigation, Warrants & Charging Decisions
Learn how cases move from law enforcement to the CAO and how charging decisions are made.
Misdemeanors, General Felonies & Special Victims
Learn how misdemeanor and felony cases are prosecuted, the specialized approach of the SVU, and key processes including Grand Jury and the Rec Committee.
Diversion, Advocacy & Integrity
Learn how cases may be diverted from traditional prosecution, how victims are supported throughout the court process, and how claims of wrongful conviction are reviewed.
What are Citizens Academy Graduates Saying?
"The discussions are deeper than I expected. They really get into the issues affecting our city."
-Clarissa E.
"I used to think a crime happened and it automatically came to the Circuit Attorney's Office and they just sentenced someone — but it doesn't move like that. There are so many moving parts."
-Precious J.
Citizens Academy News
