Join Hillsdale Mock Trial!

What is Mock Trial?      

       Mock trial is an annual statewide legal competition between high schools.  The competition is based on a criminal case file, often reflecting actual events. The case file includes evidence, witness statements, documents, police reports, rules of evidence etc.; in other words everything that a real criminal case would include. Each school selects a team of attorneys and witnesses, as well as a pre-trial attorney who argues a pre-trial motion. Students then put on trials in county court against other schools.  The trials are in actual courtrooms in front of real judges, and closely follow the procedures of a real criminal trial.
      Mock trial teaches advanced analytical ability, critical thinking, public speaking, presentation skills, the basic content and processes of our legal system, and self-confidence.  The result is that mock trial students have the opportunity to acquire elite skills—an opportunity that is not available to other students, even those in advanced AP courses.  
      At Hillsdale, our mock trial team takes the opportunity to showcase its skills seriously.  Each year we scrimmage and compete against the best teams in the state. Most importantly, the idea is to have fun.  And we do. The camaraderie and experience of competing at a high level are memories students will never forget. Indeed, the mock trial experience often creates students’ most important high school memories, forms lifelong friendships, and builds a long-lasting connection to a tremendous community of students and coaches.

How Do I Join?

     During the first two weeks of September we will be doing a series of promotional events, including providing information in each Freshman advisory, providing informational tables at Back-to-School night, Club Day, and the Freshman Mix-and-Mingle.  We will also hold an informational meeting on September 15 at 1:00 in room 110.  During that period you will have chance to sign up to receive additional information, including tryout information, and ask any questions.  We will conducts tryouts starting on September 21 and continuing through September 25.  Depending on your preferred role we will assign you a time for a particular day to tryout.  The week before we will also hold after-school workshops on certain skills you will need to tryout successfully.  

I Have Questions Right Now

     If you have any questions please stop by Mr. Springman's room (242), and he'll be happy to answer any questions you have.  You can also email him at mspringman@smuhsd.org.