F E A T U R E A R T I C L E J u s t i n K. F a h r i n g e r – O’ B r i e n & H a t f i e l d, P A
inspiringFutureleaders throughlaw
To the Editor:
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Michael Baggé-Hernández for always contributing to the success of children and their community. They are examples of our judiciary setting the climate of the courtroom to enhance our community.
Thank you also to Jimmy Stewart, CPA, Stewart Forensic Accountants, for providing elite audit and announcement of the scoring results. His skill added an authentic enhancement!
Additionally much thanks for the contributing love and support from the University of South Florida and Tampa Mock Trial Teams, for remembering to help their younger colleagues.
Last, not definitely not least, thank you to the battalions of attorneys that volunteered their time and talent to coach and judge, including Sara Peacock Bartos, Joe Catania, Josh Monteiro, Zac Zach Brewer- Kirby, Tiffany Oshiro, Noah Blake, Dylan O., Ashley Tinsley Gallagher, Tom Feaster, Julian BP, Colton Trina, Josh Chaykin, and so many more! n
Author: Justin K. Fahringer – O’ Brien & Hatfield, PA
On February 21, 2026, I had the privilege of serving as a volunteer judge for the Mock Trial Program sponsored by the Hillsborough Bar Association at the Edgecomb Courthouse in Tampa, and I left deeply impressed.
The event was not only educational but also a spirited competition among high school teams. Students served as attorneys, witnesses, plaintiffs, and defendants, demonstrating poise, preparation, and professionalism well beyond their years. Their command of courtroom procedure, ability to analyze facts, and skill in presenting arguments were remarkable.
The Mock Trial program does far more than simulate a courtroom. It cultivates critical thinking, public speaking, teamwork, and ethical reasoning. Students gain an“ Inspiring Future Leaders in Law” firsthand understanding of how our justice system works and why due process and evidence matter. In an era when civic understanding can feel strained, programs like this strengthen respect for the rule of law.
Equally important, members of the legal community volunteer their time to mentor and guide these students, creating meaningful connections and expanding horizons.
If we care about developing informed, confident, and principled young leaders, we should enthusiastically support initiatives like Mock Trial. Our community is better because of it.
Sincerely, Tom Feaster
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