Are you interested in criminal justice or the law? Do you love watching court shows? Do you like to act? Then this is the club for you!
Mock Trial is an academic competition in which students simulate a real trial. The trial this year is a criminal case that is entirely fictional(fake). Students will be casted for both sides of the case (prosecution and defense). Some people are casted as attorneys, other members act as witnesses on the stand.
This club is an academic sport! This means there is a commitment where you will have to read, study, memorize, think on your feet, and critically think! This is the closest club our school has to a “debate team”.
If you choose to participate, expect to participate in 2 practices per week from October through January. Some will be after school, others will be during Zero Period.
We meet multiple times over Winter Break as well, because the competition is usually scheduled for the week after we return from break.
Although the commitment may seem intense, practices are always fun and engaging!
Club Advisor: Ms. Stephens
Contact: cstephens@gehrhsd.net
RM. 108
Google Classroom Code: zh2m6jy
Mock Trial Case Sneak Peak
We expect the 2025-2026 Mock Trial Workbook, which contains the rules, procedures and the new case, to be released in October.
Mock Trial 2025: The Truth on Trial
This year’s case puts the spotlight on a shocking “swatting” incident. A fake 911 call sends police storming into a Metro City coffee shop—guns drawn, chaos everywhere. But when the dust settles, the truth is far from simple. Was it a prank gone wrong, or a serious felony? Students will step into the roles of attorneys and witnesses to argue the case, uncover motives, and fight for justice. Get ready for drama, debate, and plenty of objections—our criminal case this year is criminally good!
How to Prepare
You can start reviewing the NJ Mock Trial website and the Mock Trial Workbook to learn Rules of Evidence and Trial Procedures.
NJ Mock Trial Website: (https://njsbf.org/school-based-programs/mock-trial/high-school-mock-trial-competition/)
Mock Trial Workbook: (https://njsbf.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2020-2021-MT-Workbook.pdf)
How a Mock Trial Works: watch if you want to learn more! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xvg62f4mya4
Check out this link to find out more about the mock trial program: https://njsbf.org/school-based-programs/mock-trial/high-school-mock-trial-competition/