The Mock Trial program in St. Clair County began in 2006 when Judge Cynthia Platzer and John Livesay gathered community members, teachers, principals and attorneys who all shared a vision of creating a program for local high school students that would give them the opportunity to develop crucial professional skills.

Mock Trial is open to any high school who wishes to participate. Typically, between 9 to 11 schools throughout St. Clair County participate each year, involving over 100 students annually. More than 70 volunteers from the community, attorneys, judges, court staff and local police departments all work to put on this one day event for the students.

“I do this for the thrill. This is like the academic version of a football player’s homecoming game.” – Sara Campbell, Richmond High School

“More importantly, this program, in my opinion, is one of best tools you could ever give a high school student.  The tools to think on their toes, to work as a team, to make a persuasive and compelling argument, and to have confidence while doing so.  I told my students when I was a coach, and the students whom I’ve judged, that this program is not just for someone looking to become a lawyer.  No, the St. Clair County Mock Trial Program is for every student, no matter what profession they choose in life.“ – Brian M. Thomas, previous lawyer coach/judge