Cadillac Mock Trial Teams Shine at Regional Competition

On February 13, 2024, students from Cadillac High School and Mesick High School participated in the Northern Michigan Regional Mock Trial Competition held at the Leelanau County Courthouse in Suttons Bay. Fourteen students showcased their skills in a simulated courtroom environment, gaining invaluable experience as they navigated the complexities of a fictional legal case.

Cadillac High School entered two teams, known as Team A and Team B. Team A consisted of six members: seniors Gabrielle Anderson, Erica Conradson, Lucy-Claire White, and Silas Ashley, along with newcomers Savanah Ledger and Dominick Mulder. Team B featured eight participants, including veterans Parker Mankiewicz and Wyatt English, who guided several new members: Brandon Lehto, Tayler Anderson, Ellie Johnson, Joelene Callsen, Lillian Mahan, and Brendan Box from Mesick High School.

Both teams engaged in three trials, each presenting either the plaintiff’s or the defendant’s case in a civil lawsuit involving the East Superior Residential Tower’s Homeowner’s Association against Apex Structural Engineering, Inc. and Metro Builders, LLC. The mock trial centered on allegations of breach of contract and negligence concerning the construction of a 30-story residential tower, linked to structural integrity issues highlighted in a whistleblower memorandum. This case draws inspiration from a real event involving the Citicorp Center in New York in 1978.

Students from Cadillac excelled, earning several accolades during the competition. Notable achievements included Star Attorney awards for Ashley, Mankiewicz, Lehto, Anderson, and Conradson. Additionally, Conradson, Mankiewicz, Mahan, Ledger, and English were recognized with Star Witness awards.

Preparation for the competition was extensive, with students and their coaches, including judges Corey Wiggins and Jason Elmore, dedicating significant time to study a comprehensive case file. This file contained 13 exhibits and detailed witness affidavits, which required careful analysis to extract relevant evidence. Participants needed to organize this evidence effectively and be ready to handle objections during the trials.

The students rehearsed opening statements, closing arguments, and both direct and cross-examinations of six witnesses. They faced strict time limits, adding to the challenge of the proceedings. Throughout this process, participants honed their public speaking abilities, enhancing their eye contact, tone, volume, demeanor, and courtroom presence. They also developed teamwork and leadership skills, essential for effective collaboration in a legal setting.

Reflecting on her experience, senior Ellie Johnson noted that the mock trial provided insights into courtroom dynamics from various perspectives. Team captain Gabrielle Anderson expressed pride in her team’s performance, describing the trials as a fitting conclusion to her senior year in mock trial.

While both teams demonstrated remarkable skill and dedication, only one team from each regional competition advances to the state finals, and unfortunately, the Cadillac teams did not progress this year.

The competition not only allowed students to engage in practical legal scenarios but also emphasized the importance of preparation and teamwork in fostering future leaders in the legal field.