The Doherty High School Mock Trial Program is a positive academic program that gives students an opportunity to expand their speaking, writing, reading, and analytical skills while learning about the judicial system. The students play the role of attorneys and witnesses in a fictitious case. To play these roles, students are introduced to a number of life skills that will be helpful to them in their future, such as team work and collaboration; the importance and value of setting goals; the value of strategic planning and implementation; productive argumentative and persuasive skills; critical thinking skills; and the ability to face challenging obstacles with enthusiasm, professionalism and confidence.
Mock Trial involves a significant time commitment for all students. Beginning in September, we start Zero Hour (6:50-7:40 AM) classes two or three days per week; classes continue to February/March, for which each student will receive one semester credit (1 credit). In addition, we meet two evenings a week (usually Tuesdays and Thursdays for 2 or 2½ hours) with our attorney coaches and, from December through February, we usually meet on Saturday mornings for dress rehearsals. While occasional absences are unavoidable, the expectation is that students will be enrolled in the Zero Hour class and be at our practices. Because of the time constraints, we have found in past years that it is virtually impossible for participants in most Winter sports to also participate in Mock Trial.
Mock Trial involves a significant time commitment for all students. Beginning in September, we start Zero Hour (6:50-7:40 AM) classes two or three days per week; classes continue to February/March, for which each student will receive one semester credit (1 credit). In addition, we meet two evenings a week (usually Tuesdays and Thursdays for 2 or 2½ hours) with our attorney coaches and, from December through February, we usually meet on Saturday mornings for dress rehearsals. While occasional absences are unavoidable, the expectation is that students will be enrolled in the Zero Hour class and be at our practices. Because of the time constraints, we have found in past years that it is virtually impossible for participants in most Winter sports to also participate in Mock Trial.