Every year, Mock Trial teams from multiple schools receive either a civil or criminal case from the Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA). The HHS Mock Trial team works together, and occasionally with a lawyer, diligently from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., three days a week in order to prepare for court.
Once the team receives the case, they work closely to break it down to the vital facts, where then, witnesses and attorneys are established, and arguments are determined. There is a bit of acting in Mock Trial, as witnesses memorize their lines for court.
“It’s a good place just to get your feet wet, and to learn about [law]. Along with, of course, taking some of our law classes in school,” Mock Trial team advisor and science department chair Cindy Fuhrer said.
Those interested in legal studies are ideal members for Mock Trial, as real life legal practices are exercised, such as trial proceedings as they prepare for both civil and criminal cases. However, it is not limited to just aspiring lawyers or those with an interest in law.
“It doesn’t have to be just students that are wanting to go into law, it could be anyone that wants to be able to present themselves well,” Fuhrer said.
Mock Trial is not only for aspiring lawyers, but for any student who wishes to improve their public speaking skills, build their confidence, and learn how to properly present themselves in court.
“Ever since I joined Mock Trial, I became more confident in my speaking,” co-captain of the Mock Trial team Gina Patel said.
After careful preparation, the Mock Trial team will set off to a courthouse to compete with other schools’ mock trial teams. Schools they’ve competed against in the past include Bartlett High School, York Community High School, the St. Charles High School and more.
Members of Mock Trial see their growing strength as they thrive at state competitions. The team’s hopes of growing the team, continuing to improve, and even making it to nationals are strong.
“I feel like everybody really grows into someone that understands the law and understands what they want to do or what they don’t want to do,” captain of Mock Trial team Sydney Sullivan said.
