Among the many traditions that mark the final stretch for seniors, one stands out as both intense and unforgettable: the annual Senior Mock Trial. For many seniors, it’s more than just an AP Government assignment, but a total immersion. Students transform from their usual hoodie-d self to become professionally suited up, strutting in their heels and flats in the familiar halls of the BCB. In many ways, years of preparation, from harkness seminars to history roleplays, have culminated in a single, carefully crafted performance. Chris Bae ‘26 corroborates, “Since 7th grade, I’ve always wanted to come to school in a suit. Experiencing that now, and feeling like I’m part of a real court, has been incredible.” 

Whether it was enjoying roleplaying a ruthless prosecutor, a charismatic defense attorney, or a manipulative witness, every AP Government student found a way to leave a mark on their case. Ms. Zellerbach, one of the AP Government teachers who set up the trial, described that students had a healthy level of competition. Even for the seniors outside of AP Government, the Senior Mock Trial had opportunities to get involved. For many, it represented one of the final times to share a laugh and challenge with their peers, making the most of high school before they head off in separate directions. 

Over the past few months, the seniors have prepared cases, written opening statements, cast witnesses, read through huge case packets, and pored over evidence. Each class was divided into smaller groups, each of which got a case and went up against another class’s group. On Senior Mock Trial day, volunteer judges arrive at campus and are introduced to their bailiff, law firms, and class teams, who arrive early for last minute preparation. During the case, the dynamics of court come to life—from the spun up narrative to the half-listening jury members. Lastly, juries deliberate for anywhere from twenty minutes up to an hour.

But the takeaways from this mock trial extend beyond the court. From collaboration and conflict resolution skills to time management and critical thinking, the seniors will take their newfound expertise beyond high school. As Ms. Zellerbach explains, “It’s always really fun to see the witnesses, in particular, really get into their role. We had multiple juniors and seniors who did a really good job as witnesses, like fake crying on the stands and really embodying the character.” 

Additional seniors provided some insight into their experiences. Emma Xu ‘26 learned a valuable lesson, saying, “I’ve never been so sure that I do not want to be a lawyer.” Sam Cooper ‘26 added, “The jury’s lengthy deliberation sticks with me the most: About 30 minutes in, the jury representative reentered the courtroom, presumably to give a verdict. But she was only there to ask a question—and the jury deliberated for another difficult half hour.” Meanwhile, Chris Bae ‘26 continued, “The funniest moment was when Rashad objected to himself.” 

Mr. Bellaimey added, “The judges, all accomplished lawyers, said that our students were better prepared than many first-year law students. The faculty did a great job playing the roles of expert witnesses ranging from blood splatter analysts to forensic text message linguists. Ms. Zellerbach and I are grateful to everyone who helped make this day happen.” All in all, the Senior Mock Trial brought the senior class together in one more bonding experience.