For high school students eager to explore the legal field, stepping into a mock courtroom can be the first step toward a future in law. On December 4, 2024, Wayne State University Law School, in partnership with the Michigan Center for Civic Education (MCCE), provided that opportunity by welcoming 150 students from Wayne, Washtenaw, and Macomb counties to its Partrich Auditorium for an immersive introduction to trial advocacy.  

By introducing students to the fundamentals of trial advocacy, Wayne Law is providing meaningful opportunities for students to explore the legal field and develop key skills that will serve them in higher education and future careers. The clinic was designed to be more than just a competition preparation—it served as an avenue to make legal experience and exposure accessible to all students, regardless of their background. 

The Honorable Kameshia D. Gant, Oakland County Sixth Circuit Court judge, set the tone for the day with a virtual keynote address, highlighting the clinic’s role in inspiring the next generation of legal professionals. She emphasized the importance of early exposure to legal education and how programs like this can provide students with the confidence and foundational skills necessary to pursue careers in law. 

The clinic introduced students to the fundamentals of mock trial, providing essential legal resources to schools with limited access while offering an engaging introduction to the legal process. Throughout the day, students honed key skills such as public speaking, effective communication, critical thinking, and legal analysis—tools that extend far beyond the courtroom. 

Participants engaged in four interactive breakout sessions, each focusing on a different aspect of trial preparation. Students worked on crafting compelling opening and closing statements, conducting witness examinations, and building strong legal arguments. Led by Wayne Law’s Mock Trial team and Professor Daniel Ellman, Assistant Director of Externships, the sessions provided a hands-on approach to legal education. In small groups, students analyzed a fictional breaking and entering case, while applying trial techniques in a collaborative environment. 

“The Wayne Law Mock Trial Clinic was a fantastic event,” said Professor Ellman. “The students arrived eager to learn and spent the day developing their litigation skills. Clinic workshops were designed to teach students how to analyze a case, conduct examination of witnesses, and deliver opening and closing arguments. In teams, the students then engaged with a simulated case, applying those techniques in a collaborative fashion. Their passion and dedication were inspiring to all.” 

The energy in the room was electric as students took ownership of their arguments, challenging their opponents with strategic questioning and demonstrating impressive analytical skills. Many expressed newfound confidence in public speaking and problem-solving—key competencies that translate into both legal and professional success. 

Wayne Law Mock Trial Commissioner Hannah Eberhard reflected on the event’s impact: “Being part of this clinic was such a rewarding experience! Introducing high schoolers to what it is like being a litigator was a great way to excite students about law school and other careers in the legal field. My favorite part was seeing students collaborate and put their newly learned skills into action.” 

Beyond the trial simulations, students participated in interactive trivia challenges and coaching sessions, where legal professionals provided real-time feedback and mentorship. The overwhelmingly positive response from participants underscored the event’s effectiveness, with over 80% of student attendees expressing increased interest in mock trial following the clinic. 

Ryan Doss, Assistant Director of Undergraduate Legal Programs at Wayne Law, emphasized the broader significance of the clinic: “This program exemplifies our commitment to expanding access to legal education. Our program  introduces students to the legal field at an early age while creating pathways to higher education and future careers in law.  

As Wayne Law continues its mission to foster the next generation of legal professionals, preparations are already being executed to ensure the Mock Trial Clinic is an annual event. With great aspirations to expand and reach even more students while supporting the development of high school mock trial teams, the clinic is paving the way for students to explore and pursue careers in the legal field. Catch a glimpse of the event and view the digital photo album.