To make its Mock Trial, Debate, and We the People programs successful, Civics First needs assistance throughout the school year from attorneys, judges, law students, and educators. No experience is necessary, and we promise that you'll find the experience a rewarding one.

'm excited to announce that the Connecticut High School Mock Trial Competition, sponsored by Civics First and the Connecticut Bar Association, is now recruiting judges for the 2023-2024 season. Thanks to all of your support, we had a great transition back to in-person trials following the COVID-19 pandemic. We are grateful to all of the attorneys, judges and law students who join us each year to teach high school and middle school students about the rule of law and the operation of the court system by volunteering to judge mock trial. Please join us to judge a trial (or a few trials) at the following regional locations (playoff dates TBA shortly):

Bridgeport: Friday, December 1 (Trials at 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM)

Danbury: Thursday, December 7 (Trials at 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM)

Waterbury: Friday, December 8 (Trials at 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM)

New Britain, Friday, December 15 (Trials at 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM)

Hartford: Wednesday, December 20 (Trials at 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM)

Middletown: Monday, December 4 or Monday, December 11 (1:30-5 PM)

To register, please use this link to the CBA's registration system. As always, lunch and snacks will be provided for all volunteers. This year's case is Watson v. Gillette Lodge & Catering, which is a very timely civil case that explores legal issues arising from a wedding venue's attempt to reopen safely in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. After you register, we'll be in touch with more information about parking and orientation for your selected days and times. 

The efforts of the volunteer attorneys and judges make the mock trial program a unique opportunity for students around the state, many of whom join the pipeline of the next generation of lawyers. I hope you'll able to join us in the courthouses this year!