The Perry High School Mock Trial team joined 40 other Iowa high school teams March 4 for the Iowa State Bar Association Mock Trial Central Regional Contest on March 4 in Des Moines. The Perry team includes student litigators:
● Quin Mahler-Moreno: Attorney
● Mylah Meis: Attorney/Witness
● Catherine Miranda: Attorney/Witness
● Isaiah Christensen: Attorney/Witness
● Aleah Karolus: Attorney/Witness
● Seth Borgeson: Witness
● Oneida Hernandez: Attorney
● Jacob Morales: Attorney
● Darlene Gonzalez: Alternate/Timer
Advisors are faculty members Brenda Mintun and Tom Lipovac, and the attorney coach is practicing lawyer AnneMarie McDevitt.
The Perry team represented the Plaintiff in the first round, competing against a State Qualifying team from Waukee Northwest High School, which resulted in a total performance score of 228-266.5.
The Perry team represented the Defendant in a second-round competition with Ankeny High School, resulting in a total performance score of 208-236.5.
Seth Borgeson was cited by Regional Judges as an Outstanding Witness honoree.
“I enjoy working with the team to prepare their exemplary questions for direct and cross-examinations, as well as their opening and closing statements highlighting the key elements of the law,” said Mock Trial Advisor Brenda Mintun. “Our attorney/witness rapport is top-notch, as we collaborate to put on each case to the best of our abilities. Judges consistently reference our deep understanding of the case materials and incredible teamwork.”
Each year competing schools are provided with a criminal or a civil Mock Trial case. Mock Trial competitions are judged by courtroom judges, attorneys and other legal professionals.
Teams earn performance points based on their ability to effectively portray the roles of attorneys and witnesses while engaging in the courtroom process and displaying critical thinking and presentation skills.
Teams with 2-0 records and the highest performance point totals advance to the Regional Finals and then to the State Tournament. The competition is a one-class system, encompassing high schools with a wide range of enrollments.
“Our team’s ability to identify case details, analyze witness statements and exhibits and present clear, convincing and logical arguments in support of both the plaintiff and defense’s positions were key assets,” said Mock Trial Advisor Tom Lipovac. “It is our hope that throughout the process, students expand their legal knowledge, enhance their presentation skills, engage in critical thinking and enjoy the experience while giving their best in this challenging academic competition.”
Mock Trial competition is designed to introduce students to the U.S. legal system by providing a challenging, academic competition. The program offers students an opportunity for personal growth and achievement, emphasizing the importance of research, presentation and teamwork.
In addition to teaching students about contemporary public issues and the legal system, the program encourages teachers and students to develop learning partnerships with legal professionals from the community. More than 1,600 students from across Iowa participate in the annual competition. The tournament includes students from TAG programs and extracurricular Mock Trial clubs.
Lipovac offered a special thank you to AnneMarie McDevitt, a practicing attony in Perry who shares her legal advice and expertise with the PHS students.
“AnneMarie’s commitment to our program is appreciated,” Lipovas said. “Also, thank you to Brenda Mintun, who demonstrates a passion for the law and for teaching. Her ability to connect with students in learning and her exceptional organizational skills are valued.”
