Order in the Court: Mock-Trial’s Next Steps

Mock-Trial students share their thoughts about their competition season. 

By: Chloe Falcon-Barros

With competition season finalized, the Redwood Mock-Trial team has dominated the courtroom. With wins against other schools in the valley, and moving up in the ranks. 

Starting in August, when the 2024-2025 school year started, there have been meetings and practices to ensure they have everything for this season. 

The competition was fierce, especially during the semi-finals, where Mock trial teams Blue and Silver faced off. Both teams displayed incredible talent and dedication, proudly representing our school.

Mock Trial President Chloe Seals, ‘25, reflects on how the Mock trial team did during the competition session. 

Seals says, “Redwood Mock Trial has two teams, Silver [Redwood – A] and Blue [Redwood – B]. In the semi-final round of the county competition, our Blue and Silver teams went up against each other in an intense round, with our Silver [Redwood – A] team ultimately coming out on top.”

As the team reflects on an incredible season filled with hard work and determination, it’s important to celebrate the achievements and look forward to what lies ahead. 

The dedication and teamwork displayed by everyone on the team has been truly inspiring. 

Seals says, “Although their season is over, we are looking forward to an end of the year celebration with the team and watching them compete in the next season. Silver [Redwood – A] moved on to take Golden West in the finals, where we secured a victory. After winning the Tulare County Mock Trial Championship, the Redwood – A will travel to Los Angeles during March 14-16 for the State Competition.” 

However, before reaching the state level, the students invested a significant amount of time and dedication into their preparations. 

They devoted countless hours, often sacrificing their free time, to meticulously prepare for a challenging rigging session. 

Ms. Morgan, one of the coaches, says, “Pure dedication. Students practiced after school two times a week for about 4 hours total.  They also practiced in scrimmages with other teams outside of Tulare County, in person and Zoom. Practices were held over Winter Break as well.” 

During this competition session, students have reflected on their experiences. 

They learned what strategies worked well and what did not. By looking closely at their methods, they can understand their strengths and weaknesses. 

Discussing these experiences with classmates helps them share tips and support each other. This evaluation is important for their growth as students and competitors.

Mr. Freeborn, another coach says, “The students learned that it is important to be prepared and not to underestimate the opposing team. Both the Finals [versus Golden West] and Semi-Final round [against Redwood Blue team] were very close, hard-fought cases. Redwood Blue Team also performed extremely well throughout the county competition this year.”

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