Kit & Case Materials - YMCA of Greater Seattle

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT MOCK TRIAL –
THE “NUTS AND BOLTS”
**Don‘t start anything until you read this! **
What is a mock
trial
Where do I get the
case for the year
Who organizes and
pays for the Mock
Trial Program
Who can form a
mock trial team
High school students portray a part in a cast of courtroom
characters. Much of mock trial’s fascination lies in its dramatic roleplay
possibilities. Students can become, for a time, a fiery
prosecutor or a dedicated defense attorney, a righteous defendant
or an elusive witness. Each year students study a new hypothetical
case relevant to today’s issues. They receive guidance from
volunteer attorneys in courtroom procedure, oratory, and trial
preparation.
The Mock Trial Kit (includes the case and supporting materials) is
provided by the Mock Trial Program in mid October. No other
materials other than those provided may be used. This places the
emphasis on interpreting and formatting information into a
convincing case rather than researching obscure legal precedents.
The YMCA Youth and Government program funds a Professional
Staff to administer the Mock Trial Program. Our operating costs
come from donations, grants, and volunteer support. Participant
fees make up the additional costs it takes to make this program
possible. Public and private high school teachers and attorneys
take on the task of preparing students for competition. They may
receive a stipend from their individual schools.
A teacher at any high school, public or private and/or an attorney
volunteer can be a coach. All participants (grades 9–12) must be
enrolled at the same school district, preferably in the same high
school, or the same private high school, or be a pre-existing
member of a youth group in existence for a minimum of 3 years
with a constitution or bylaws. Home school and other youth groups
may also participate. With the approval of the state coordinator,
exceptions can be made to help new teams get started.
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