Advanced Speech and Debate Concludes Mock Trial

Recently, students in the Advanced and Competitive Speech and Debate class concluded a mock trial. Over the past few weeks, the students have been researching and preparing for their roles as judge, bailiff, jury members, attorneys, witnesses, and sketch artists. All the students learned important skills such as how to select jury members, how to create a theory of the case, and how to object to questions from the opposing side.

During the trial, the defense attorneys did a great job making the prosecution’s witnesses seem less credible. But the prosecution was determined to get a conviction at all costs – even if that meant charging their classmates with perjury and finding a way to interrupt jury deliberations! After thoughtful consideration of all the details, the jurors decided to convict the defendant, A. Buckley (played by C. Chase), of one count of aggravated arson and two counts of murder in the first degree.

The defense attorneys did not take this defeat lying down – they immediately requested a mistrial, and got to work researching how to appeal the decision!

If you see these students, make sure to congratulate them on their hard work and accomplishments!