Elko County Mock Trial Program
Elko County Mock Trial
– Established 2006 –
High School students compete against each other in a real courtroom setting taking on the roles of attorneys and witnesses for both the prosecution and defense. The competition is judged by Federal and State Judges.
The Elko County Mock Trial program is a coordination between the Fourth Judicial District Court, Department 1, and the Elko County Bar Association. Mock Trial is a completely voluntary program. The support of the Mock Trial program is largely based on community support. The Mock Trial team members raise funds from businesses throughout the community in order to cover the costs of the competition.
2007- 2008 Mock Trial Team
Mock Trial team members are students who range from Freshman to Seniors in high school. Students practice after school and on weekends.
Mock Trial provides students with an exciting law-related education program that introduces students to the American legal system and provides a challenging opportunity for personal growth and achievement. As part of the mock trial program, students pushed to exercise their critical thinking and teamwork skills, as well as basic skills learned in the classroom and courtroom.
ATTORNEYS - A team of three teenage prosecutors and defense attorneys are appointed to prepare each side of the Mock trial Case. Both the prosecutor and defense attorney are responsible for learning the Mock Trial Rules of Evidence, which are mirrored after the Federal Rules. The Attorneys are responsible for making objections to the opposing Attorneys' questions. The Attorneys are also responsible for making opening arguments, closing statements, and introducing evidence.
WITNESSES - Teenage volunteers also serve as the witnesses for both the Prosecution and the Defense. The witnesses are responsible for learning and memorizing the affidavits of each witness, as well as the facts of the case. The witnesses are subject to both direct examination by their own team members and cross examination by the opposing team.
COACHES - Coaches are responsible for teaching the team proper courtroom procedure, the rules of evidence and evidentiary objections, as well as assisting in case preparation. The Elko Coach is Judge Mike Memeo. Local attorneys are encouraged to assist the as coaches, as well.
Mock Trial Team Roles
For More Information or to Join the Mock Trial Team contact:
Linda Sarman
775-753-4601