“Objection, Your Honor,” rang out again and again as students turned a fictional case into a very real test of skill.

High school Mock Trial isn’t just “playing pretend.” It’s a fast-paced, high-pressure contest built on teamwork, preparation, and sharp thinking. 

This year’s Regional competition proved exactly that, as both the Black (Varsity) and Red (Junior Varsity) Teams took on Commonwealth v. Pike, a case centered on complicity to murder. Both teams walked away with spots at the State competition in March.

“So for the Red team, our first day we actually did really well,” said freshman double witness Emily Howton. “We ended in second place overall, and that put us against harder teams…which was a really great experience.”

The case itself demanded careful strategy from both sides. Students stepped into the roles of attorneys and witnesses, navigating objections, examinations, and legal procedure in front of real judges and attorneys.

“It was really cool seeing the other side,” said freshman Red Team defense attorney Avery Dore,. “I’m only on the defense side of the case, so it’s really fun seeing the prosecution and how they prove that Jordan Pike was complicit.”

Preparation was what made those moments possible. The teams practiced multiple times a week, often for hours at a time. 

“Don’t think that the snow stopped us,” said senior double prosecution witness and defense attorney Ella Howton. “We had Zoom calls every day leading up to regionals… and that just paints a very great picture of how dedicated we are.”

Students were expected to independently learn affidavits, scripts, and case details before coming together to practice objections, witness testimony, and courtroom interactions.

“Scrimmages were probably one of the most important things that we got to do,” Emily said. “It was really where you got to see all your hard work come alive.”

That preparation paid off, especially for the Black Team. After a challenging first day, they regrouped, adjusted strategy, and returned stronger.

“I am just so proud of everyone on our team,” said Ella. “We swept the next day. We got six for six ballots…that’s why these people were put together, because we know how to get the work done, but also have fun.”

The Black Team’s success continued a strong legacy as back-to-back state champions with a high strength of schedule. For the Red Team, the path looked different, but no less impressive.

“It’s all about teamwork really, ” said Emily. “At the end of the day we all worked together to help each other and that’s why we made it to Regionals and now we all get to go to State.”

Although the Red Team did not earn an automatic Regional bid, they qualified for State through an open bid, awarded to the highest-scoring teams across all regions that didn’t automatically advance, explained senior double prosecution witness and defense attorney Belle Galloway.

“The competition went really well,” said Dore. “I think we really outdid ourselves and we should be really proud.”

It marked the first time in two years that both teams advanced to State. And with many seniors graduating and a new coach stepping in, both teams faced major changes.

“We lost so many seniors,” said junior attorney for both sides, Maahi Patel. “Seeing how strongly new members argued this case… I wasn’t expecting this crazy good.”

Yet, what made this year stand out wasn’t just results; it was growth.

“Learning to work with a new coach…was difficult for returners,” said Galloway, “but everyone adapted really well.”

For freshmen, the experience was transformative. First-year competitors described Mock Trial as overwhelming at first, but ultimately rewarding.

“Competing in Mock Trial for the first time is really just…a coming-of-age experience,” Emily said. “You realize it’s so much more than just playing pretend. You can’t rely on yourself alone, it’s all a part of your team.”

While some students grew up around Mock Trial, others stepped into the courtroom with no prior experience at all.

“I didn’t even know what an objection was,” said Dore. “But it’s been one of the most fun experiences I’ve ever had… it’s stressful, but once you know your stuff, you get to actually have fun with your friends.”

For some seniors, legacy was a big part in their last experience with Mock Trial. They reflected on how it connects students across years, and even families.

“My older sister did Mock Trial, and now my little brother is doing it,” said Galloway. “That legacy is really special.”

For Ella, It invokes a feeling of pride knowing that she got to be a part of something that’s so special and brings people together in a way like mock trial does.

“Watching the dynamic of the team change every year but still be close-knit is so special,” said Ella, a four-year member. “I also get to watch my sister compete as a freshman… that’s very special to me.”