Have Gavel, Will Travel

In October 2019, the Akron Municipal Court formally launched a new outreach program entitled “Have Gavel, Will Travel.” This program’s goal is to schedule opportunities for Judges and Akron Municipal Court staff members to visit schools and other community groups to educate the public about its mission, specialized dockets, programming and timely topics.

Visits are free of charge and in most instances, related materials, such as pamphlets, can be provided by the Court.

Ideal groups for “Have Gavel, Will Travel” include:

  • Churches
  • Schools
  • Scout troops
  • Professional associations
  • Leadership groups
  • Non-profit organizations/agencies
  • Neighborhood/homeowner associations

"Have Gavel, Will Travel" is open to all Summit County organizations but preference will be given to events in the Akron Municipal Court jurisdiction: the cities of Akron and Fairlawn; the townships of Bath, Richfield and Springfield; the Villages of Lakemore and Richfield; and the Summit County portion of Mogadore.

Judges and staff members are assigned to each request based on the topic and availability. Topics that have been covered in past presentations include the importance of making good choices, human trafficking red flags, eliminating domestic violence, veteran issues, tools to overcome a drug and/or alcohol addiction, matters surrounding mental health, how to move on from a criminal past/obstacles and next steps for students wishing to pursue a legal career path.

To schedule a visit as part of “Have Gavel, Will Travel,” please contact the Akron Municipal Court Community Outreach and Grants Coordinator Nicole Hagy by calling 330.375.2186 or emailing NHagy@akronohio.gov.