The Georgia High School Mock Trial program began in 1985 in Clayton County as a classroom initiative with Ms. Peggy Caldwell and Mr. Philip Newton. The state competition was held for the first time in 1988. Jonesboro High School won that first competition in 1988. Other district winners are listed below:Since that time, the competition has grown across the state to include more than 130 schools.  Schools began preparing their cases in November and compete at the Clayton County courthouse in January. This year's competition will be held in January 2027. The top three schools move on to district competition which will also be held at the Clayton County courthouse in February 2027. The top two schools will move on to the state competition in Gwinnett in March 2027.