The Lyceum of Monterey County

26th Annual
Mock Trial

What is Mock Trial?

The Mock Trial Program is an exciting law-related educational program that introduces high school students (grades 9-12) to the American legal system. Mock trials are structured like "real" court trials and follow the same rules. The program pairs students with mentors from the legal community. Through one-on-one interactions with attorney coaches, a student's understanding of the law is greatly enhanced.

Benefits of Mock Trial

The Mock Trial provides an opportunity for personal growth and achievement. Through role-playing, students gain an understanding of our judicial system--what roles judges, lawyers, juries and witnesses play in the system. Additionally, students develop critical thinking and public speaking skills and a working knowledge of our legal practices and procedures. 2006 Seaside High School graduate Elizabeth Wolcott says “Mock Trial was one of the coolest things I got to do in high school, because it was an activity outside of class that helped me develop my speaking and team management skills, which were invaluable to me in college.”

Interested in Participating in Mock Trial?
Contact joyce@lyceum.org


Special Thanks to:

Monterey County Bar Foundation
Monterey County Bar Association
The Chapman Foundation
The Harden Foundation
The Monterey Peninsula Foundation
Yellow Brick Road Foundation

2023-24 Participating Schools:

Carmel High School
Salinas High School
Pacific Grove High School
Palma High School
Santa Catalina High School
Stevenson High School
Gonzales High School
Rancho San Juan High School

"This was my second full year of coaching Mock Trial and once again I was reminded of the invaluable ways that this program enriches the academic experiences offered in high school. As an English teacher, I especially appreciate the ways that the program addresses learning objectives in my subject area. The students learn to write and respond to arguments, as well as speak eloquently with poise and confidence. What more could a teacher ask for?"

- Larry Haggquist, Mock Trial Teacher Coach