01
Build the argument.
Break down a case, connect the evidence, and brainstorm a strategy with your team.
NOW RECRUITING WEST HAVEN HIGH SCHOOL · CT
Your voice.
Your case.
Your move.
Think fast. Speak with purpose. Make your case.
The next chapter of West Haven Mock Trial starts with you.
No experience needed. Commitment required.
WHHS / MOCK TRIAL
THE NEXT CHAPTER
Court is
back in session.
CASE REOPENED
- THE MISSION
- Come back stronger.
Compete together. - THE TEAM
- Curious minds.
Serious ambition.
EXHIBIT AYOUR POTENTIAL.
ONE HOUR. EVERY WEEK.Thursdays · 2–3 p.m.Tentative schedule · Room to be announced
01 / THE CLUB
A fictional case.
Real confidence.
You don’t need to know the law to find your voice.
Mock trial puts you in the courtroom: analyze a fictional legal case, build an argument, question witnesses, and work as a team to bring your side of the story to life.
Last year, in our first season, we competed in the Connecticut Bar Association competition. We didn’t take home a win. We did take home experience—and a reason to come back ready.
The story isn’t over. Help write what comes next. THE ORIGINAL TEAMThey started the story.
They started the story.
You could be next.
Our first season took us to the Connecticut Bar Association competition. This is the team that made that first chapter possible. Now we’re building the next one.
02
Own the room.
Write and deliver openings and closings that make a clear, compelling case.
03
Ask the right questions.
Practice direct and cross-examinations. Listen closely. Think on your feet.
04
Play your part.
Step into attorney and witness roles, rehearse together, and learn from feedback.
02 / TAKE THE STAND
Got an argument?
Let’s hear it.
A two-minute taste of mock trial.
No legal knowledge needed.
CASE 01 / FICTIONAL PRACTICE
The missing fundraiser funds
A club treasurer is accused of taking $200. A witness saw them leaving the room, but three other students had access to the cash box.
An original learning scenario, not an official competition case. THE COURTROOM LAB
Don’t just read about it.
Step into the role.
Explore the team. Find your angle.
Then take a first shot at an opening.
REAL SKILLS. YOUR NEXT CHAPTER.
Turn the evidence into a story.
Deliver openings and closings, question witnesses, and explain why the evidence supports your side.
Your first challenge
Explain the missing fundraiser funds case in one sentence—without assuming anyone is guilty.
YOUR FIRST OPENINGOne minute.
One minute.
Make it count.
Practice with the fictional missing-funds case. Give your audience a theme, a fact, and a question to keep in mind.
Practice only. Your writing stays on this page and is not submitted.
THE FLOOR IS YOURS
Your opening will appear here once you fill in all three prompts. Start small. Say it out loud. Make it yours.
1:00practice timer
Complete the prompts to start practicing.
03 / BEYOND THE COURTROOM
Skills that go
with you.
01
Find your confidence.
Get comfortable speaking up, responding under pressure, and explaining what you think.
02
Build your next chapter.
Develop research, writing, leadership, and teamwork skills—and meaningful experiences to discuss in college applications and interviews. Participation does not guarantee admission.
03
Meet the profession.
Explore legal careers and potential connections with attorneys and visiting coaches. Guest visits may happen from time to time; they are not yet confirmed.
04 / IN YOUR CORNER
Built by a student.
Built for this team.
FOUNDER & LEAD COACH
David Cuellar
A West Haven High School alumnus and current college student, David founded the club and returns to coach its next chapter.
He brings two years of law firm experience as a legal assistant, working with files and clients and attending court. The team does not currently have an attorney coach. David is a legal assistant, not an attorney, and brings practical experience and a commitment to helping students prepare.
CO-PRESIDENT
Neesa Nieves
Part of the leadership team helping shape the next season of West Haven Mock Trial.
We hope to welcome attorneys and other coaches for occasional guest sessions.
THE EXPECTATION
Bring your curiosity.
Bring your commitment.
This is a competition team. Your preparation matters to everyone beside you. We’re here to learn, but we’re also here to put in the work.
- Attend weekly practice and communicate conflicts.
- Prepare your material and follow through on your role.
- Respect teammates, coaches, witnesses, and opponents.
- Be ready to receive feedback and improve.
Extra Zoom or in-person practices may be arranged. Parent or guardian permission and school-approved adult supervision are required for any outside-school arrangements.
05 / YOUR NEXT MOVE
There’s a place
for your voice.
Claim it.
Tell us a little about yourself. Beginners are welcome—show us your interest and willingness to work.
Thursdays, 2–3 p.m.
Once a week for one hour.
Tentative—your availability helps us plan.
Room to be announced.
Your answers are collected for club recruitment and scheduling and are available in the private coach inbox, not displayed publicly. Please do not include sensitive personal details. This form expresses interest; it is not parent or guardian permission.