Mock Trial Competition 2016

Donna Klein Jewish Academy participated with five other local schools in the Palm Beach County Mock Trial Competition which was hosted by the Main Palm Beach County Courthouse on February 17, 2016. This was a wonderful opportunity for the students to learn about justice, the court system and its process. 

The students reviewed and analyzed a case study provided by Florida Law Related Education Association, which is partially funded by the Florida Bar Association (see http://www.flrea.org). A new case study is provided yearly by FLREA for the Florida High School Mock Trial Competition. The students participated in this academic competition in which a team of eight students role play attorneys and witnesses in a fictional trial. Students had an opportunity to compete against other school teams in the 15th Judicial Circuit, Palm Beach County. The students learned about criminal law and procedure along with the applicable rules of evidence. This case focused on the latest hot topics in law cyberstalking and cyberharassment.

This experience allowed the students to explore their interests in the field of law, try on the legal profession, and forge the future leaders of our community. In addition, the students developed their analytical skills, communication tools, and complex decision making, which is valuable in any career path of their choosing. 

The students also had an opportunity to tour the courthouse and meet with court personnel. Chief Judge Jeffrey Colbath and the Alternative Dispute Resolution Coordinator Walter Colbath of Palm Beach County privately met and spoke with the students regarding their responsibilities and the role they play in our legal system. It was a very memorable experience, which was much appreciated. The experience had an incredible impact on amazing students. 

I am very proud of the Donna Klein Jewish Academy Mock Trial Team. They did a wonderful job representing our school. 

Caryn Siperstein Klein, Esq.

Director of the Legal Studies Program