On March 12, 2025, Timberline’s Mock Trial team traveled to the Ada County courthouse to compete in the Idaho State competition for Mock Trial. The team consists of nine members (Liane Medina, Gabriel Magalsky, Cameron Shaddy, Patrick Christopher, Cayden Tripp, Sarah Lopez, Angelina Morzano, Oscar Drinkwine, and Aubrey Mullis), two courtroom journalists (Nora Lafferty and Taylor Jackson), and one courtroom artist (Hanna Baker), along with coach Maura Goddard.
Mock trial is an extracurricular activity that consists of a simulated court trial where participants role-play as attorneys, witnesses, and other legal professionals to practice and understand the legal process. It involves presenting a fictional case, typically based on real-life legal scenarios, where teams argue both the prosecution and defense sides. Participants research legal issues, prepare arguments, examine witnesses, and present evidence in front of a judge or panel of judges.
The team powered through four long rounds against opposing teams from all across Idaho. When it was over, Timberline scored fifth place overall, the highest-scoring public school out of all of the teams. Courtroom journalists have yet to see scores along with the courtroom artist, but updates will be provided. The National Mock Trial competition starts May 7-10, 2025, in Phoenix, AZ.
Mock Trial team after the 4th round of State competition
Patrick Christopher showing his mock trial achievements, including the “Star Witness” award
