Fall 2003

The Model Judiciary Program attempts to provide high school students with an opportunity to learn about the Commonwealth of Virginia's judicial system through experience and practice. Local law firms mentor the students to help prepare them in their portrayal of attorneys, jurors, witnesses, and bailiffs and court clerks in a trial simulation. Teams of Fairfax County students participate in the program, sponsored by the Fairfax County Circuit Court and the Fairfax County Bar Association. Under the guidance of local judges and lawyers who serve as judges, the students present mock trial cases and appellate oral arguments.

Kristen Bennett of Moore & Lee, LLP began working with a student team in the fall of 2003 to help the young people prepare their cases. Although a script is provided, it is meant merely to serve as a guide, and details of testimony may be ad-libbed. Students quickly discovered the importance of safeguards in the legal system, such as a fair trial and respect for the rights of the accused. They also learned the difficulties of thinking on their feet, making reasoned arguments and strategic objections, and rendering fair decisions.

For more information on this topic, please contact Robert M. Moore, Charlie C.H. Lee, or any of the attorneys in the firm with whom you have an existing relationship.