Applying Real Skills at Mock Trial

By Sophia Ho

June 24, 2024

On March 27, 2024, Mock Trial classes throughout Long Island attended the Mock Trial competition at Suffolk County Community College.

Jericho seventh and eighth grade students in the Mock Trial elective had been working on the simulation case for the past year, eagerly anticipating the competition. According to Eighth Grade Mock Trial teacher Ms. Suchopar, “We started out doing cross examination questions, and revised them. [Students also] practiced in front of each other.” Students were able to study the details and various possibilities of the trial process, she noted, as they “practiced objections, and practiced with the different tools we might use.“ 

The classes all took a bus to Suffolk County Community College, where the trial simulation took place. Each class was split into separate groups (prosecution or defense), and competed against other teams from different schools. They presented opening and closing statements along with direct and cross examination questions throughout the trial, making their arguments based on the affidavit.

Middle School Mock Trial offers an opportunity for students to learn about the basics of law by simulating the processes and roles in a court case. Students act as attorneys or witnesses, learn about the law, practice public speaking, and build teamwork skills by preparing for different cases. “I hope whatever the outcome is, it is something that is enjoyable,” Ms. Suchopar said. The opportunity is a valuable experience, as students “get to practice in front of a real judge.” 

In addition to introducing students to the field of law, Mock Trial can help develop important skills like public speaking and critical thinking. Overall, it is truly a fun and educational way for students to understand how the pursuit of justice works in the real world.