The Conestoga Mock Trial team traveled to the Sarpy County Courthouse on Monday, Nov. 3 facing off against HTRS in a highly anticipated competition. Even though Conestoga came up short in the scoring, the experience was intense, exciting, and full of lessons the team plans to use in the future.
Walking into the courthouse felt like stepping into a real courtroom drama. The attorneys carried thick case files, and witnesses practiced their testimony. When it was time to begin, Conestoga acted as the prosecution, trying to prove the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. HTRS presented the defensive side, pushing back with objections, cross-examinations, and strong interpretations of the case.
Both teams delivered convincing arguments, but the judges scored in favor of HTRS. Even though it was disappointing to lose, the team stayed positive. Lillian H received a compliment from the judge due to her professionalism, strong-speaking, and confidence. For many of them, especially freshmen, it was their first time competing in an actual courtroom with a real judge evaluating. Logan G received the Best Witness Award along with Lillian H receiving Best Attorney.
In the end, the group returned to the school proud of the effort they showed. “I think everybody put a lot of work into the trial and everyone tried their best and the trial went pretty smooth and even though we lost everyone did really well,” states Lillian H. The courthouse may have been intimidating, but Conestoga proved they belong there and they’re ready for the next trial.
