Mock Trial Introduces Students to the Law

March 4, 2019

The Minnesota High School Mock Trial program is supported by the Minnesota State Bar Association. It aims to introduce students to the legal system and help them develop critical thinking and teamwork skills.

CDH has four Mock Trial teams, comprised of students from all grade levels. All the teams had a great season this year, and the Senior team was undefeated in the regional competition.

Mock Trial is a Varsity lettering academic sport where students learn about all aspects of the legal process including the rules of evidence in court. It is an excellent way to practice life long skills of public speaking, thinking on your feet and writing persuasive arguments. Teams compete against other high schools using a case that is released each season by the Minnesota State Bar Association. Students study the facts of the case and analyze the legal arguments and witness statements. They can choose to be attorneys or witnesses and argue both sides of the case in front of practicing attorneys and judges at the Ramsey County Courthouse.

Kathryn Fetterly, a former attorney and Social studies teacher, is the faculty advisor and Jack Pierce of Bernick Lifson, P.A. is the attorney advisor and has been coaching the teams for 13 years.