I love mock trial because it gave me exposure in a field that I hope to pursue. I always wanted to attend law school, pass the bar exam, and have the chance to step foot inside a courthouse, but never before have I had the experience of being an attorney before joining mock trial. I feel mock trial has helped me with my public speaking, creative writing, and my decision-making skills. It has helped me pay closer attention to detail and learn how to be in the moment.

In my opinion, mock trial was much like playing a sport only without the physical exertion. The attorneys were like the offensive linemen protecting the quarterback who was the witness. There is an offense (plaintiff) and defense where each side must know their roles better than anyone else to have a chance at success. If one person does not prepare enough for their role, regardless of its perceived size, then the whole team would suffer as a result. Mock trial has given me the chance to learn how to work together on a team with others. Sadly, I never realized how important this skill is until I joined the Mock trial team.  

Throughout the season, my team especially has learned accountability, discipline, and the need to be prepared at any moment for something to not go as planned. Despite the many hours of preparation after school and at home, it was fun and worth it to present your piece and own your role on the weekends! Mock trial encompasses elements from speech, debate, and acting which was very appealing to a student like me who was interested in all of those activities throughout high school. The experience I had working hard, having fun with my teammates, practicing courtroom etiquette, meeting real life judges and attorneys, learning the law from my coaches, and taking a law exam were moments I will never forget! Anyone can benefit from joining mock trial. They will grow in their role and grow as a person throughout their time learning the case from November to March. 

John Russell, Team Captain
Homewood-Flossmoor High School
Class of 2020