Metea Valley’s Youth and Government Club hosted its first mock trial of the year on Oct. 24. Students who participated in this event simulated being in court and learnt what government looks like.
The fictional case, “State vs. Foreman,” was about allegations against Foreman who allegedly killed a man during an altercation. Students from Metea and other high schools including Neuqua, Waubonsie, etc. acted out the roles of prosecutors, defendants, witnesses, and jurors. Prosecutors argued that Foreman was guilty of murder while the defense argued that he acted out in self-defense.
The mock trial was designed to closely imitate a real court process. It began with opening statements from both sides, followed by the prosecution presenting its witnesses. The defense then conducted cross-examinations before switching roles. After both sides had presented their arguments and evidence, the trial concluded with closing statements. Then the jury stepped out to discuss and decide the final verdict.
Many participants practiced before going up and presenting their cases by sharing with their peers what they were going to do. Ashlyn Jacobs, a Neuqua student who played as an attorney, talked about how it feels practicing before going up.
“You don’t know what the opposition side is going to say,” Jacob said. “So it teaches you to think on your feet.”
During the mock trial, there were judges who were actually attorneys to help maintain order while the court was in session. John Gatz, a patent attorney, who has participated in past mock trials as a judge came back this year to do it again. Gatz explains what he has witnessed in past years.
“They are impressive, especially people who have done it once or twice versus just starting off,” Gatz said. “Confidence is the main difference if somebody’s seen it before they’re going to be much better at doing it.”
This event came together with the work of Susan Fuhrer and Sydney Neukirch to create an environment that allowed students to freely explore how the legal system works. Neukrich explained how they have guests come in to give advice and support to students.
“It’s a great way to bring in attorneys from the area to give them practice on how to argue a criminal case and get them thinking about the next steps,” Neukrich said.
The Youth and Government Club’s student board and past members played a crucial role in ensuring the mock trial ran smoothly. Their experience in participating in mock trials provides valuable insights for others on what to expect. Jett Barker, President of Legislators, shares his thoughts based on his experiences in previous mock trials.
“It was exhilarating to present and work with your partner on something you’ve been preparing for weeks,” Barker said. “It’s just really fun to get up there to make your argument and make your case.”
The mission behind this club is to show students what being civically engaged looks like and get a better idea as to how their government functions. Vikram Narasimhan, State Chief Justice of Youth and Government, emphasizes the message they want to spread.
“We have a motto, democracy must be learned by each generation, and that’s the idea of what we really do,” Narasimhan said.
As the year goes on Youth and Government plans continue to demonstrate the importance of civic education and empowering younger generations by holding another mock trial in the spring. Senior Nidhi Kasar, who played as a Clerk Bailiff, reiterates how the club’s structure will continue to teach students how the world works.
“Youth and Government gives a whole new perspective by creating a miniature version of our country’s government,” Kasar said. “It just makes it more fun and entertaining.”
