On Wednesday, Nov. 12, all three of the Conestoga Mock Trial teams competed at the Sarpy County Courthouse. It was for the second round of the competition out of three. Each team consisted of student attorneys, witnesses, and time keepers. The coaches were also in attendance, Judge Welch and Nick Hegge.

When the teams arrived they were assigned to different courtrooms for their rounds. Once the case started the teams played their roles to the best of their abilities, either the defense or the prosecution. The judges were volunteer attorneys and other legal professionals who evaluated the teams based on organization, legal knowledge, delivery, courtroom procedure and overall effectiveness. “I think everyone tried their best and was really well prepared. Lillian H, an attorney for our freshman team, told me what she thinks went well. We responded well to objections and worked together to be able to do our best.”

Throughout the competition, teams presented opening statements, conducted direct and cross examinations, introduced exhibits, made objections, and delivered closing arguments. Judges scored these components using score sheets provided by the organizers of the competition. Lorelai F, a key witness for the freshman team, stated her opinion on the season so far, “I think every team is working very hard to improve from round one.”

After all the trials were completed the judges gave feedback to both teams. They do not give out the results of the trial after the case; they wait for a day or two. When the results were emailed it was confirmed all three teams from our school were unsuccessful in their matches. The senior team was a split decision that was very close. “I think the round helped us gain confidence going into the last round.” Sean L, a witness for the senior team, expressed how the round gave the teams added experience.

Although no wins were achieved all three teams competed their second round as scheduled, followed procedures, and gained additional experience in the mock trial competition as a whole which will help them in later rounds as they progress in the competition.