The Mock Trial Competition is a theatrical presentation of a legal case created by Teach Democracy (formerly named the Constitutional Rights Foundation). Student teams perform eight different types of roles and use the US legal system from pre-trial through to the closing arguments.
Mendocino County professional attorneys and judges volunteer to support students in learning their roles and how to think critically on their feet. Students say they enjoy how this extracurricular club uses competitive team spirit in a non-traditional sport. The Mendocino County winning team advances to the State Competition where the winner then competes in Nationals.
Mock Trial invitation to participate
Mock Trial frequently asked questions
Download a Mendocino County Mock Trial event flyer (PDF)
Download the 2023/24 Mock Trial Case Brief (available 9/7/23)
WHO - Middle and high schools in Mendocino County that register by Monday, October 9, 2023. Please contact Adam Paulson to register: (707) 467-1502 or apaulson@mcoe.us.
WHEN - Mock Trial teams gather in Mid-Oct. to discuss the County Scrimmage on December 9, 2023, and at the County Competition February 10, 2024. Teams often meet weekly with their attorney coaches.
WHY - As part of the Mock Trial program, students will:
- Learn and perform a legal drama from pre-trial through to closing arguments
- Receive in-depth exploration of legal careers and coaching by local legal experts
- Compete against peers at other schools
- Enhance essential life and career readiness skills such as public speaking, critical thinking, and working as a team under pressure
WHERE - Mendocino County Superior Court, 100 N. State St. Ukiah, CA 95482.
Please contact Adam Paulson, MCOE Continuous Improvement Director, if you have questions about Mendocino County Mock Trial, forming a new team at your school, or to request materials in alternative formats: (707) 467-1502 or apaulson@mcoe.us.