Session-by-Session Curriculum
Eight sessions from case analysis through live competition. Each session builds on the last — by the end, students are running a full trial.
Kick-Off
Program goals, expectations, and case file distribution. Students form teams, receive their roles, and get oriented to the case materials.
Case Analysis
How to dissect a case file and organize its parts. Students learn to identify key facts, legal elements, and build a theory of the case from raw materials.
Opening Statements
Structure, purpose, and what makes one persuasive. Students draft and deliver their first opening statements with peer feedback.
Direct Examination
Drawing out testimony through strategic questioning. Students learn to prepare witnesses and develop testimony that supports their theory.
Cross-Examination
Challenging witnesses and controlling the narrative. Students practice the art of leading questions and impeachment.
Closing Arguments
Weaving facts and testimony into a compelling final pitch. Students learn to tie evidence to legal standards and deliver a persuasive conclusion.
Evidence & Objections
Rules of evidence appropriately scaled for high school competition. Students learn foundational objections, how to lay a foundation for exhibits, and courtroom procedure.
Competition
Local invitational against Bay Area schools. Students put everything together in a live competitive round with real judges and scoring.
Competition Track
Fall: Case prep through sessions 1–7, culminating in a local invitational (~November).
Winter: Continued practice, scrimmages, and SF County Mock Trial competition (January–February).
Spring (TBD): Second case & competition opportunity — potentially appellate advocacy track.