Mock Trial team competes in three invitational tournaments

The Mock Trial team at Northern Illinois University. On Oct. 22-23, Carthage Mock Trial traveled to DeKalb, Ill. to compete in its first invitational tournament of the fall 2022 season.

Twenty teams from across the Midwest and Arizona competed in the tournament at Northern Illinois University. Carthage finished with a record of 4-4, a successful record for the first tournament. The team also received two individual awards: Michaela Moore ’24 received an Outstanding Witness award, and Andrew Marron ’26 received an Outstanding Attorney award. The awards are based on each team member’s individual performance. The team also finished second for the Spirit of AMTA award, which is given to the team that best exemplifies Mock Trial’s ideals of civility, justice, and fair play.

The Mock Trial team at Illinois State University. The team next competed on Nov. 4-6 at Illinois State University, where the field consisted of 30 teams.

Lastly, Carthage hosted its own annual tournament, The Dairyland Challenge, on Nov. 12. The competition was held at the Racine County Law Enforcement Center. Ten teams from seven schools participated in the one-day challenge. Carthage took third place. Andrew Marron once again won an Outstanding Attorney award.

This year’s team members:

• Lily Anderson ’25 (Captain)
• Alicia Lederhaus ’23 (Captain)
• The Mock Trial team at The Dairyland Challenge. Diego Alvarez ’26
• Gerardo Godoy ’23
• Arian Maciejewski ’26
• Andrew Marron ’26
• Eva Menzia ’25
• Michaela Moore ’24
• Carter Rus ’26
• Marcus Stubbs ’26
• Holly Valentine ’25

The team is coached by Professor Michael Phegley and attorney Margaret Johnson. Liv Higgins ’22 is an assistant coach to the team. Additionally, Professor Art Cyr and the A. W. Clausen Center for World Business provide support at each tournament and throughout the season.

Carthage will compete again in February at the Midwest Regional with an opportunity to advance to the National Opening Round Championship Series.

As members of the Mock Trial team, students act as attorneys and witnesses and present the case as the plaintiff or defense in a simulation of a jury trial. Scores are based on performance, knowing the facts of the case, and understanding the law. Rules and objections are based on the Federal Rules of Evidence.

If you have an interest in law school or want to further develop public speaking, critical thinking, and team building skills, the team is always looking for new talent. Please send an email to Prof. Phegley at mphegley@carthage.edu for more information.

Sponsoring Department, Office, or Organization:

Carthage Mock Trial

For more information, contact:

Michael Phegley: mphegley@carthage.edu