Have you ever tried to persuade someone to change their mind, but were unable to present a good argument for your case? Do you like to solve puzzles or find answers to questions? Have you ever wondered how the legal system works or thought about being an attorney? Would you like to be more comfortable speaking in front of people? If you answered yes to any of these questions, this may be the class for you!

In this class, students will learn about the origins of law and the basics of the United States’ judicial system. The class will look into how laws have been made throughout history and how lawmaking has evolved. We will explore legal terms, courtroom etiquette and individual roles involved in legal proceedings and trials. Students will explore and examine several actual court cases and then actively participate in three to four mock trials (time/class dependent.) Court roles will alternate among students for each mock trial. The cases litigated will increase in complexity as the class term proceeds.