Many of the factors that make a trial attorney engaging are the same criteria these future advocates are judged on . Now , while it isn ’ t technically scored , each team must have two witnesses during the trial . Every year , the assigned fact pattern incorporates different types of witnesses from experts , to lay witnesses , to law enforcement . The student witnesses must realistically embody their character and undergo direct and cross examination to help their team win .
In future rounds , the same teams also need to be able to “ flip ,” meaning if your team previously prosecuted a case , it must later be able to defend the same case . What better way to teach a future advocate how to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of a case ? Each team competes in two to three rounds in a single day which is designed to test their mental stamina and fortitude .
At the conclusion of each round , judges and participating attorneys ( scoring judges ) are allowed to give feedback to students regarding performance , case theory , and professionalism . This allows attorneys to give perspective based on their own experience and guide student competitors in future rounds and competitions .
Be A Part of Something Great !
Now , hopefully some part of the foregoing illustration has you excited to watch the performances from the gallery of our local courthouse . However , if a front row seat is more your style , we are always looking for volunteers ! Having sufficient scoring judges is imperative for the competitors to receive adequate feedback and ensures a better grading criteria for the advancement of qualified teams . Additionally , volunteer timekeepers are necessary to keep the competition progressing at an appropriate pace . Should either of these roles be of interest to you , reach out to Cori Coser at ccoser @ bgk . law .
Each year , we hear practicing and / or retired judges give the same feedback : “ it can be hard to distinguish these students from practicing attorneys .” In one way or another , we hope you can make a difference for our local students !
Classified
ADS
Adams and Reese seeks a litigation associate with 3-5 years of experience to join our team in Sarasota , providing litigation support throughout Florida . Adams and Reese is a dynamic , superregional firm dedicated to serving industry leaders throughout the Southeast with collaboration and excellence . The role involves managing a diverse and engaging caseload from start to finish . Ideal candidates have experience in construction , financial services defense , or real property litigation , as well as strong written and oral advocacy skills . Candidates should be comfortable drafting pleadings , motions , discovery , handling depositions and dispositive motions . Florida law license in good standing required . Full-time in-office .
� Apply online HERE .
Luxury solo office at a conveniently located building on Ringling and Shade . 1215 sq . ft . available now ; $ 2,500 (+ sales tax ) per month includes all except electric . Great parking .
� Contact JLE Realty 941-906-4000 / tia @ jlerealty . com .
Clothing Drive
In 2024 , the Young Lawyers Committee also began its first annual Suit Drive to benefit student competitors with free access to professional attire . We received an incredible contribution from local firms and attorneys but hope to accomplish even more this year ! If you ’ re reading this , it is not too late to contribute . The Suit Drive continues through February 9 , 2025 .
We are accepting gently used men ’ s and women ’ s professional attire ( suits , suit separates , professional tops , dress pants and skirts , ties , and dress shoes ). Should you need special accommodations for pick up or drop off , you can contact Forest Sutton at Fsutton @ smrl . com or 941.365.7171 . Drop off locations : Syprett Meshad ( 1900 Ringling Blvd ., Sarasota ) and Berg & Kessler ( 1872 Tamiami Trail , Suite D , Venice ).
All overflow clothing not picked up by the student competitors will be donated to local youth organizations or non-profits for use . For 2025 : the organizations that will be recipients of overflow donations are :
• Greatness Beyond Measure
• Sarasota Teen Court
• SPARCC Treasure Chest
Bentley Goodrich Kison , a commercial litigation firm , seeks a fulltime litigation paralegal . This position supports attorneys practicing commercial litigation , real estate litigation , trust and estate litigation , and appeals . The applicant should possess experience as a litigation paralegal , the ability to independently manage files , excellent writing , verbal , and analytical skills , excellent time management and organization skills , and fluency in Microsoft Office and Outlook . Responsibilities include drafting discovery requests , discovery responses , motions , and letters , scheduling , filing , communication with clients and Jas , and general litigation support . Salary commensurate with experience . Health insurance / 401 ( k ) benefits are offered with full-time employment upon eligibility .
� Email resume to nwhite @ bgk . law .
To place a classified advertisement , contact the Bar office : ( 941 ) 861-8180 | scba @ sarasotabar . com
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THE DOCKET - FEBRUARY 2025 | 25