Students participate in mock trial

FALLBROOK – Third and fourth grade GATE students from La Paloma Elementary School visited the Vista courthouse on Tuesday, Nov. 29. The honorable Judge Cline presided as the students participated in a mock trial.

The case dealt with bullying which has become a growing problem in many of our schools today. Students were assigned the parts of a district attorney, defendants, plaintiffs, witnesses, jurors, the bailiff and the court clerk. This opportunity was provided by the “On My Honor” program which is designed to instill in our youth a concept of respect for the legal system, and to educate students about a variety of subjects relating to the courts, and the administration of justice.

The following quotes are from some of the students who participated in the mock trial. “I played a vice-principal who was a witness in the trial. It was my first time in a courtroom and it was really exciting,” said Alan Lopez.

“It was fun to be in a mock trial. I played the part of the bully and was found guilty. The bailiff handcuffed me and took me out of the courtroom,” said Anna Draves

“I played the part of a witness. I got to sit in the witness box. It was cool!” said Ethan Schmuthz.

“I was a juror and after listening to the evidence I went to a little room to decide if the defendant was guilty or innocent,” said Amee Mosely.

“I was a lawyer in the trial and I learned that the real court room is different from TV,” said Rheannon Winegar.