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Mock Trial (sometimes synonymous with moot court) is a contrived or imitation trial. High School Mock Trial teams are designed to help students acquire a working knowledge of the judicial system, develop analytical abilities and communication skills, and gain an understanding of their obligations and responsibilities as participating members of our society.
The Case
Every year a different hypothetical case is written which includes summaries of case law, witness statements, official exhibits, and rules of evidence. Students analyze the case, write opening and closing statements, and prepare witnesses. The case is then tried with other teams, using volunteer judges, to determine winners in several categories such as; top teams, best witness, best attorney, best opening and best closing statements.
The Students
Students actively experience the excitement of working in teams, exchanging ideas, setting goals, and examining issues while interacting with positive role models from their communities. By studying the case and preparing strategies and arguments for trial, students also develop presentation skills, analytic ability, and team cooperation.
Judge and Attorney Volunteers
Mock Trial could not be a success without the donated help from community Judges and attorneys. These volunteers make Mock Trial an educational and exiting experience for the students. Attorneys serve in a variety of roles- acting as team coaches, scoring, and presiding over trials.
State Standards
Mock Trial programs allow students to develop the skills necessary for the mastery of state content standards for history and social science. Through performance-based education, the program furthers an understanding of both the content and processes of our legal system; increases basic skills, analytical ability, and self-confidence; and promotes cooperation among students of various cultures and interests. Based on responses to formal surveys, teacher-sponsors report significant improvement in students' basic skills, critical thinking skills, presentations skills, participation skills, and self-esteem as well as increases in students' content knowledge about the law.
MOCK TRIAL TRAINING - Click Here
UPCOMING MOCK TRIAL COMPETITIONS - Click Here
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