Mock Trial Competitions

This is the second year Burrell High School has a mock trial team. The program helps develop communication and leadership skills along with teaching students elements of the law. Mrs. Pagnotta, the club’s sponsor, works with the team to formulate an argument based on their case materials and evidence provided from the Pennsylvania Bar Association. With the help of real lawyers, the team produces direct and cross questions along with opening and closing statements. Pagnotta said, “Mock Trial is an opportunity for students to learn about the justice system and decide whether or not there is enough evidence to prove or disprove a point of view”.

The Burrell Bucs competitive team consists of six witnesses and four lawyers. The lawyers include: Lily Liotta, Jordyn Litz, Channing Taylor, and Journey Wenner. The witnesses include: Mikayla Gorsush, William York, Vivian Bush, Kira Legters, Bella Procopio, and Noah Mayes. 

The Burrell Bucs Mock Trial Team attends their second competition

On February 18, The Bucs went into their second competition feeling calm, collected, and confident. The team represented the prosecution, while Norwin acted as the defense. The Bucs attempted to prove Connie Macleod as being guilty in the trial of The Commonwealth of Pennslyvania vs. Connie Macleod. Unfortunately the Bucs did not successfully prove their argument but still managed to impress the judge and jurors. Despite this loss, the team scored very well and were not too far behind Norwin.

The Bucs had new witnesses on the stand and a new lawyer as well. The competition roster included witnesses: Mikayla Gorsush, William York, and Vivian Bush. The lawyers included: Lily Liotta, Jordyn Litz, and Journey Wenner. At the competition Lily Liotta received the best advocate award, while William York received the best witness award. 

The Burrell Bucs Mock Trial Team attends their first competition

At the Greensburg Courthouse, Freshman Kira Legters sat on the witness stand as she was being interrogated by the plaintiff. Legters, who acted as the defendant, responded confidently and patiently while reciting her alibi. Most of the time, being in this scenario would be undesirable, but in this case, Legters and the rest of the Burrell Mock Trial Team were excited and prepared for this moment. In this trial of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania vs. Connie MacLeod, the Bucs represented the defense. They had to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that their client, who was played by Legters, was innocent. In the first competition of the season, the team faced the Derry Trojans who acted as the prosecution. 

At their first competition, Kira Legters received the best witness award and Channing Taylor received the best advocate award. The Bucs will have the opportunity to represent the plaintiff in their next trial on February 18th against Norwin. 

Writing Contributor:  Lily Liotta

Photography Contributor:  Mrs. Pagnotta