During school year 2010-2011, STVM's Mock Trial Team achieved success at the district level by winning both trials, advancing to regional competition in our first year of participation in Ohio's Mock Trial Program.  At both the district and regional competitions, STVM students won individual awards.  Specifically, Ben Nelson, RosaLia Stadler, and Isabella Sparhawk won awards for Best Attorney.  Additionally, Jackson Ewing and Monica Pirie won awards for Best Witness.  We are very proud of this achievement!

What is Mock Trial?

The Mock Trial program provides students the opportunity to learn first-hand about the law, court procedures, and the judicial system while also building 21 st century learning skills, such as teamwork, critical thinking, and analytical and presentation skills. Each year volunteer attorneys create an original case around a current constitutional issue important to students.  Mock Trial teams work with an attorney or a judge to prepare their case – from both the plaintiff and defense perspective. Beginning in February, competitions at the district, regional and state levels are conducted in an actual courtroom and are scored by panels of lawyers and judges.  By studying the case and preparing strategies and arguments for trial, students are provided a challenging opportunity for personal growth and achievement. It's a combination of public speaking, debate, and acting.  The Mock Trial Team at St. Vincent-St. Mary is coached by Judge Lynne Callahan.

How do I learn more?

Additional information about Ohio's Mock Trial program can be found at the following link:
http://www.oclre.org/OhioMockTrial

What do Mock Trial participants say about their experience?

"I thought the program was very interesting and beneficial to me because it really opened up my eyes to a different career path that I had not yet thought about pursuing. Through my participation in Mock Trial, I had the opportunity to experience a taste of what being a lawyer is all about. I thought it was very interesting to play a role in an actual case and present my defense to the jury as well as to a real judge. Having experienced the actual process of a trial first hand, I will definitely watch the show Law and Order a little more closely from now on!"

“Excellent. Constantly interesting and useful.”

“A truly wonderful experience.”

“I had the time of my life.”

“It was amazing.”