Pictured: The team poses with their advisors and Judge Rogers at the Luzerne County Courthouse.

MMI Preparatory School’s Mock Trial Team earned a 1-1 overall record during their recent District Trials at Luzerne County Courthouse, announced Mrs. Theresa Long, Head of School. The team also saw a number of individual students earn accolades for their performances. This year’s competition trial was The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania vs. Connie MacLeod.

On Wednesday, January 29, the prosecution team took on Blue Mountain at the Luzerne County Courthouse before Judge Lesa Gelb and secured a unanimous 5-ballot victory. Representing MMI as attorneys were juniors Adam Frask and Erica Schwear, and sophomore Ian Composto. The witnesses were junior Nora Herseim, sophomore Amanda Stoffa, and freshman Madalynn Young. In recognition of their performances, Adam Frask was named Best Attorney, while Madalynn Young earned the honor of Best Witness.

On Wednesday, February 5, the Preppers competed against Wyoming Seminary in a contested trial that resulted in a tiebreaker decision at the Luzerne County Courthouse. The team presented a strong defense before the Honorable Jennifer Rogers. MMI’s defense attorneys – senior Evan Pedri and sophomores Christina Chrin and Delilah Yatsko – made their case, while witnesses senior Kiyan Paknezhad, sophomore Angelina Seeba, and freshman Andrew Pedri brought the trial to life. Evan Pedri was named Best Attorney, and Andrew Pedri earned Best Witness recognition.

MMI Preparatory School’s Mock Trial program is guided by advisors Mrs. Cheryl Bayo and Ms. Mara Zumchak, with Attorney David Pedri, President and CEO of The Luzerne Foundation, serving as the team’s dedicated legal advisor. The team roster included 30 Upper School students who trained as attorneys, witnesses, paralegals, timekeepers, and understudies for the competitions.

One of the largest in the nation, the Pennsylvania Bar Association/Young Lawyers Division Mock Trial Competition gives over 290 high school student teams from across the state the opportunity to act as lawyers and witnesses in simulated civil trials before actual judges and panels of juries. Lawyers volunteer to assist students as team advisors, scorekeepers, and regional coordinators. The District-level competition is hosted by the Wilkes-Barre Law & Library Association/Luzerne County Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Division.

Mrs. Theresa Long, Head of School, commended the team’s efforts: “Our students demonstrated exceptional skill and preparation in both trials. Their ability to think critically, present compelling arguments, and perform under pressure speaks volumes about their dedication and teamwork. We are incredibly proud of their achievements.”

Mock Trial Advisor Mrs. Cheryl Bayo praised the students’ perseverance: “Having a roster of 30 students allowed us to train extensively, ensuring that those selected for trial roles were well-prepared and confident. Every team member played a crucial part, whether competing in the courtroom or serving as a backup to strengthen our case. We deeply appreciate the dedication of those who trained in support roles, as their efforts contributed significantly to the team’s overall success.”

Ms. Mara Zumchak, also a Mock Trial Advisor, highlighted the learning experience: “Participating in Mock Trial not only sharpens students’ legal and public speaking skills but also builds confidence and teamwork. Their performance against strong competition shows their potential and commitment to excellence.”

The Mock Trial program provides great opportunities for students to develop their legal knowledge, enhance their public speaking skills, and work together as a team.