Mock trial is not your average club. It is a months-long commitment with intellectually challenging effort, endless dedication, required collaboration, critical and creative thinking, often some harsh critiquing and many a zoom meeting. In February, the Crusader Mock Trial team presented a compelling plaintiff case in the quarter final playoff round before Judge Michael Feeney.
Witnesses Sara Slitt, Zoe Hall and Ella Procaccianti were outstanding. Ella was so compelling that she earned a spot on Judge Feeney’s fictional “Mock Trial All Star Team” with her portrayal of the plaintiff’s expert on police use of force.
The legal team of Matthew Speltz, Rocco Grasso and Gabriella Andrade worked hard in an attempt to prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant police officer used excessive force and caused lasting injuries to the plaintiff. Matt kicked things off with a strong opening statement, his first of the season.
Gabby used some theatrics to demonstrate how close an eyewitness was to the interaction. Rocco rounded the trial off with an excellent closing argument. All three lawyers showed great technique with their examinations, use of exhibits and interjection of objections.
Siena Taliani assisted as Rules Expert.
The Crusaders fell to Barrington, ending the otherwise undefeated season.
A special note of thanks to Mr. Mercurio, Mr. Slitt, Mr. Grasso, Alison Fonseca and Mr. O’Connor, who remain invaluable to a successful program. Their contributions, skills and differing perspectives are essential to the team's success.
