From the probing plaintiff’s attorney to the deft defense counsel, students in Mock Trial at Washington State University Pullman play a variety of roles and gain valuable experience in preparing for careers in law.
Adding powerful authenticity to their experience, this year’s Mock Trial team recently got the rare opportunity to practice their skills in an authentic courtroom and to meet with real-life judges, lawyers and other legal professionals where they work.
A generous gift from WSU alumnus Judge John Rossmeissl, of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for Washington’s Eastern District, made it possible for 22 students in Aman McLeod’s “Political Science Issues” class to travel to Yakima to participate in two practice trials and to learn first-hand about courthouse operations and procedures.
“Little is as effective in learning to practice law as actual practice, and what better place to get such practice than an actual courtroom,” said McLeod, faculty instructor for the team.