Illinois High School Mock Trial Program
(Illinois State Bar Association)
The Illinois High School Mock Trial program provides an opportunity for
students to experience what it is like to prepare and present a trial. Mock
trials are structured like a “real” court trial and follow very similar rules.
High school students of all ages and abilities receive a hands-on learning
experience while playing key roles in a legal setting. This simulation helps
students understand how the legal system works and what roles judges,
lawyers, bailiffs, juries and witnesses play in the system.
Mock Trial helps foster understanding and respect for the legal system
and the rule of law by:
- promoting greater understanding and appreciation for the law, court procedures and the American judicial system;
- improving basic life skills, such as critical thinking, communication and advocacy skills;
- improving communication and cooperation among community members including students, teachers, government leaders, law professionals and citizens;
- increasing appreciation for the principle of equal justice for all;
- promoting an awareness of current legal issues;
- promoting the exchange of ideas among students from throughout Illinois while providing a fun, rewarding and memorable experience; and
- fostering teamwork, collaboration and cooperation among young people of diverse interests and abilities.
Though mock trials can be conducted in the classroom any time
throughout the year, the Illinois State Bar Association sponsors an annual
mock trial tournament for high school students. Teams of students are
coached by attorney volunteers and teachers and must work together to
prepare their presentations from case materials provided by members of the
State Bar of Illinois’s Law-related Education Committee. The winning school
represents Illinois at the National Mock Trial Championship in May.
Click to view Exemplar 2 >>