A Mock Trial Program for the Junior High School Classroom

Abstract

Amock trial program is described here that will introduce troduce junior high school students to basic concepts of civil trial technique and the law. Most mock trial programs suggested for the junior high school student deal primarily with complicated constitutional law issues (Ratcliffe, Gordon, and Gallagher 1989). The case law included in them covers a wide variety of abstract legal principles, such as freedom of religion and freedom of expression,' or extremely antiquated case law that a junior high school student would have difficulty identifying with or understanding.2 Some states offer mock trial programs through the state's bar association; however, they may be available to only a limited number of students. This mock trial program deals with a topic of great interest to junior high school students-driver's license revocation for driving while under the influence of alcohol. In addition, it is intended for an entire junior high school history, civics, or social studies class. It interrelates two items of tremendous importance-driving responsibly and the use of alcohol-while introducing a class to basic trial techniques and concepts.