Eastburn and Gray Coaches Three Local Mock Trial Teams
Eastburn and Gray proudly coached three local mock trial teams in the 2015-2016 season. The firm has participated in the mock trial program since 2001.
This year, Kimberly Litzke, Esq., a shareholder in the firm’s family law practice group, helped coach two teams at Central Bucks High School South. Based on the success the school experienced last year, South entered two teams into the competition this season. According to the rules, once the competitions start, the teams must be coached separately and that is when Hugh J. Algeo, IV, Esq. stepped in to coach the second South team.
Sarah A. Eastburn, Esq., Erin N. Kernan, Esq., and Zachary A. Sivertsen, Esq. coached Central Bucks High School East’s mock trial team.
The mock trial program is structured like a “real” court trial and follows the same rules to provide students with a hands-on learning experience to learn about the United States legal system. Each member of the team has a specific role and is responsible for delivering an opening statement, conducting direct and cross-examinations of witnesses and delivering closing arguments. Students develop critical thinking and communication skills.
Each of the firm’s coaches was involved in training the students in trial skills such as questioning witnesses and presenting opening and closing statements for a period of four months. In Bucks County, 14 teams participated and the three teams coached by Eastburn and Gray attorneys made it to the four finalists in the semifinals and the finals competition. The Central Bucks High School South Varsity team was victorious in the finals and will now go on to the regional competition on March 16, 2016.
“I have been involved with this program since 2001,” said Ms. Litzke. “Year after year, I continue to be pleasantly surprised by the talents that these students bring to the table. Their skills, commitment and dedication to the program keep me engaged.”
