Mock Trial

Designed to give students first-hand knowledge of civil/criminal law and courtroom procedures, Holy Family’s Mock Trial program has seen a rise in popularity in recent years.

Nearly 30 students represent two competitive teams that have enjoyed success this year at the regional and state level. Holy Family finished second at the Adams/Broomfield Regional Tournament, while several students received individual accolades. Junior Madeleine Fernandez was named Best Defense Attorney, senior Samantha Genzer was recognized as the Best Overall Witness, and junior Piper Welling and freshman Peyton Venn were each recognized for Best Witness Portrayal for their roles.

At the State Tournament in March, Holy Family finished 7th, and Senior Connor Doroff was recognized with the Best Opening Statement of the tournament.

“Mock Trial allows students to expand their public speaking, writing, reading, and analytical skills while learning about the judicial system,” said Rich Everett, Holy Family Social Science Department faculty member and one of Holy Family’s four Mock Trial coaches. “This program helps students gain skills that will serve them well in college and perhaps stimulate interest in law-related careers.”

Holy Family has an impressive group of team coaches. Everett, who spent several years of government work on Capitol Hill and the New Jersey State House, is joined by Holy Family Board of Trustee member and Partner at Alderman Bernstein law firm Jody Harper Alderman, Holy Family alumna

All teams must make their presentations based on identical hypothetical case materials. The students play the role of attorneys and witnesses. To play these roles, students are introduced to life skills that will be helpful to them in the future, such as teamwork and collaboration; the value of strategic planning and implementation; productive argumentative and persuasive skills; critical thinking skills; and the ability to face challenging obstacles with professionalism and confidence.

Mock trial teams perform a case for the Prosecution/Plaintiff and/or the Defense. Usually, an actual Colorado judge or magistrate presides over the trial round while attorneys, paralegals, and community members adjudicate the student performances.

Since 1985, the Colorado Bar Association (CBA) has sponsored the Colorado High School Mock Trial Program. It is funded by the CBA Litigation Section and the Colorado Bar Foundation and is of the country's leading and most respected programs. More than 100 high school teams and 1,500 students participate in Colorado’s mock trial program.