On Feb. 7, 2024, San Diego Federal Court will be bustling with students from Mission Hills High School. Clad in their semi-formal attire, Grizzlies will show off their several months of hard work, in hopes to sway the judge to their side.
“[In preparation], we have met with our attorney coaches and written out our arguments with a shared line of reasoning,” said Vice President Samara Lanum.
Going to court—even in this controlled environment—is a tricky situation, and any error in speech or planning could be cause for concern. Not to worry though, because this high-stakes pressure is what drew many students to Mock Trial in the first place.
“I joined because I’m interested in murders, crime scenes, investigations and finding justice in the law,” said freshman and Mock Trial witness Izzy Post.
While the rush of this high-stakes pressure is guaranteed when investigating any case, none of it would exist without the collaboration of club members. Thus, team bonding exercises are a part of the weekly meeting agenda. These activities really help the students connect with one another, which will inevitably lead to better communication come competition time.
“We’ve played hide-and-seek and pictionary. It allows the team to share laughs and fun moments before dividing into the mock trial content,” said Lanum, who is also captain of the Prosecution team and a closing attorney.
With this in mind, it is key for everyone to prepare individually, so they can be more effective as a whole. Every role has a different purpose, and it is up to the student to perfect their part.
“I have to practice embodying the character that I’m assigned to. As witnesses, we have to know all the facts so we can be prepared for the court,” said Post.
Although this club is mainly run by students, professional attorney coaches Keith Rutman and Kali Sarkin will often come in to help out. Their presence is extremely helpful for the Grizzlies.
“They both work with the team to ensure we follow rules and our arguments flow well and make sense.” said Lanum.
As the competition nears, the MHHS Mock Trial team is given more and more reasons to be confident in themselves and their peers.
“We have put in a lot of effort during our practice, and I believe the payoff will be very rewarding,” said freshman and Mock Trial attorney Suhani Kamal.
