In a unique educational opportunity, students at Prospect High School dove into the complexities of the legal system through mock trials organized by the school’s law class. Under the guidance of the law teacher, Jay Heilman, these fresh legal minds gained  first-hand experience of courtroom procedures, evidence analysis, and persuasive arguing.

The mock trials occurring on April 17th through the 25th are meant to be similar to actual legal proceedings, and they give students a chance to go into different parts of criminal cases. Divided into prosecution and defense teams, students take on roles such as lawyers, witnesses, and the jury, offering them a broad view of the legal process.

Heilman indicates the educational value of these mock trials. 

“Having students go through the mock trials gives them a first hand experience as to what (the legal process) looks like,” he said.

Sophomore Dylan Aldworth shared how he prepares for participating in mock trials. 

“I start by finding anything that can invalidate the other side’s story, and make whoever I’m directly examining seem reputable and not have any reason to lie,” Aldworth said.

Heilman also added, “I want them to be able to debate, in a sense where they have to listen to what the other side is actually saying, and then respond accordingly within the framework of how a courtroom operates.”

The mock trials cover a range of legal issues, allowing students to explore many areas of law and put a point on their analytical skills. The courtroom atmosphere created during these trials helps a sense of professionalism and responsibility with participants.

As the trials progress, students get more feedback from Heilman, who plays the role of judge throughout the process. 

“I’m coaching them through the nuances of trial, as in the way they ask questions, performance, and the way that they ask questions so on the day of trial, they know what they’re doing, have confidence, and are successful,” Heilman said.

Along with the academic benefits, mock trials offer students a look into potential career paths in the legal field. For many, the experience could start a passion for law and inspire aspirations of becoming lawyers, judges, or other legal jobs in the future.

Aldworth expressed how he is interested in law.

“I’m still not sure what I want to be when I’m older, but I think this class is very realistic to what it’s like to be a lawyer, and that it’s given me a whole new perspective on law and how it works.”