Mock Trial Practices Law at Harvard University

Mock Trial members and coaches pose at Harvard statue

Nov 4 2024

Members of the Central Catholic Mock Trial Team attended a Mock Trial Seminar at Harvard University held the first weekend of November.

Students were accompanied by faculty moderator and coach Mr. Brian Flaherty, Social Studies Teacher, and attorney coach Atty. Yolla Sabounji P'27.

The seminar was sponsored by the Harvard Undergraduate Mock Trial Team and was attended by students from all over the United States.

Students attended a series of lectures on mock trial procedures and spent time in breakout sessions preparing for a scrimmage against American Heritage High School, Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

The team’s season began in earnest last week, and they are preparing for the regional competitions which will begin in January.

Since 1985, the Massachusetts Bar Association has hosted the annual, statewide Mock Trial Program to help high school students learn more about the law, court procedures, and our legal system, giving the students the opportunity to sharpen their analytical, listening and speaking skills.

Students prepare a hypothetical case and then test their skills as lawyers and witnesses in a simulated courtroom competition.

Members of the Massachusetts Bar Association serve as attorney coaches and judges for the Mock Trial Program, while thousands of high school students across Massachusetts participate.

About Mock Trial

Central Catholic competes in the Mock Trial Program sponsored by the Massachusetts Bar Association.

The goal of the program is to help students develop their critical thinking skills, understand the judicial process, and to present themselves in public in a competent manner. It is much like a structured debate team. Mock Trial prep work starts in the beginning of November with three competitions taking place in late January or early February. Playoffs take place in late February or early March.

Mock Trial is moderated and coached by Mr. Brian Flaherty, Social Studies Teacher, and Atty. Yolla Sabounji P'27, Frawley & Sabounji Law Group

Student Life at Central Catholic

Moses and the Red, or Pink, Sea at a Pep Rally

Our students are passionate and involved.

Central Catholic's many clubs, activities, and teams provide students with the chance to develop a life-long interest while forging life-long friendships.

Students forge bonds with classmates and teachers while enriching their lives and pursuing their interests beyond the classroom.

Mock Trial is one of the over 50 clubs and activities available to students.

Explore our Online Activities Guide to find the best fit for your personality, talents, and interests.

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