What ’ s in Store by Forest Sutton , Esq . Syprett Meshad
for March
The month of March brings with it several things to look forward to - spring weather , March Madness , Daylight Savings ( if you like less sleep ) and St . Patrick ’ s Day . However , Sarasota County residents get all the above and a little more . On March 1 , 2025 , there is at least one other occurrence that deserves admiration : the Sarasota County Bar Association ’ s annual Mock Trial Competition !
For those unaware , mock trial is a forum for the inexperienced to become experienced and for the skilled to sharpen their iron . Every year , the Sarasota County Bar Association hosts its high school mock trial competition at our local Judge Lynn Silvertooth Courthouse . This annual event pits high school teams of 4 students against each other as they spend the preceding months analyzing a given fact pattern , learning rules of evidence , and training in the criminal rules and / or civil rules of procedure .
Each year , the competition increases in intensity by featuring more schools , better preparation , and heightened experience levels . In 2023 , five local high schools participated in this competition . That number rose to six in 2024 and now this year , 8 local schools are registered to compete .
According to planner and coordinator Cori Coser : “ Mock trial competitions are an awesome way for high school students to build confidence , learn how to think on their feet , and work as a team – all while getting a real feel for how the legal system works .”
What is Mock Trial ?
These mock trial competitions consist of either a civil or criminal fact pattern , where both sides are given an allotment of time to prosecute or defend their case . Each team of four students is divided into two attorneys and two witnesses . Participants must advocate for their respective sides and must learn rules of evidence to make the proper objections . The competitors prepare opening statements , direct examinations , cross examinations , motions for directed verdict ( or judgements of acquittal ), and closing arguments .
Participants are scored on their :
• case themes and theories ,
• presentation of evidence ,
• ability to make coherent arguments ,
• skill with making timely and accurate objections , and
• overall teamwork .
24 | THE DOCKET - FEBRUARY 2025