2024 Mock Trial Competition
Since 1988, hundreds of schools and tens of thousands of students from Georgia’s public schools, private schools and homeschool organizations have participated in the Georgia High School Mock Trial Competition.
The statewide number for 2024 started with 135 competing teams, which included more than 1,400 students. Sponsored by the Georgia State Bar, Richard E. Harris, Director, High School Mock Trials, noted this year’s Georgia mock trial competition may be the largest to date. But, according to Richard, the work for these students to compete could not happen without the help of volunteers.
Richard expressed his appreciation to Firms such as SM&P for supporting this outstanding and rewarding competition. “The kids are nothing short of brilliant, and the competition could not exist without the willingness of volunteers to give several hours of their time to judge rounds.
Inviting judges, attorneys, and other members of the legal community to participate in the mock trial helps bridge the gap between the simulated activity and reality, and also gives the resource people a chance to share their knowledge and experience with young people.
SM&P partner Melanie Prehodka enjoys volunteering. “Many young people interested in the legal profession haven’t had a chance to understand what is involved,” said Melanie. “We can give them a small but powerful sample of what a career in law could be like. I have been volunteering as an evaluator for many years and I was impressed by the hard work done by these students. Their attention to detail and creativity are obvious. Their parents and coaches should be very proud.”
Account Manager Najah Cabrera noted her pride when talking about what her son (Jaylan) has shared about the competition. “Hearing him explain the process and the competition itself stressed their dedication and commitment to the mock trials. “Working with real attorneys has been a wonderful opportunity,” said Norcross High School Senior Jaylan Conwell. “It was good to get a glimpse of what practicing law is like.”
The competitions started in early February across 17 different locations with the next higher level of competitions (District) being held in early March at 9 locations around the state. The State Finals will be held in Lawrenceville. For more information on this year’s competition or wanting to plan for 2025, check out the link: https://www.cognitoforms.com/HighSchoolMockTrial/_2024GeorgiaHighSchoolMockTrialStateFinalsJudgingPanelRegistration
