The New Jersey State Bar Foundation’s annual mock trial competitions are a shining example of how education and legal communities come together to provide interactive learning experiences which help promote understanding of the law and our justice system.
Law Fair, for grades 3-6, provides an interactive educational experience that enhances writing, speaking and analytical skills for elementary school students as they learn about the justice system. Students, and their teachers, write and submit original mock trial cases for the competition. The entire process helps educate students about their rights and responsibilities under the law and helps fulfill New Jersey civics education requirements.
Every year, Law Fair Competition winners are invited to the New Jersey Law Center to perform their winning case at a You Be the Jury event. Students and their teachers experience what it is like to be a juror in a mock trial by deliberating and rendering verdicts on the cases performed. Attorneys volunteer to serve as judges at the annual events.
In 2024, 589 students from 51 elementary schools participated in the competition and close to 900 students and teachers attended the Law Fair – You Be the Jury events.
Igniting Curiosity
“My students were so engaged in the entire process,” said Roberts. “They embraced the challenges presented, expanded their knowledge of the justice system, and appreciated the experience of performing at You Be the Jury.
This opportunity has created memories my students will never forget. We ignited a genuine curiosity and interest in the justice system and careers in law. I know this competition has made a difference in the lives of my students.”
Reaching Young Jurors
After attending the Law Fair – You be the Jury event at the New Jersey Law Center, Stillwater Township Principal, Marissa Cramer, supported hosting a school assembly for students and parents. Dr. William Kochis, Stillwater Township School District Superintendent, hosted the June assembly which was attended by more than 160 students along with 50 parents and family members. The Stillwater Law Fair teams performed their winning cases. The 6th grade students in attendance and selected 6th grade teachers served on the jury.
Dr. Kochis commented, “Knowing all the hard work and effort our students put into their cases, it was incredible to watch them present. As educators, we always strive to connect theory with real-world applications, and this opportunity allowed them to experience that connection firsthand. This program brings the law to life in a way that leaves a lasting impression.”
Rewarding for Volunteers
Jerry Neidhardt, Assistant Prosecutor, Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office, volunteered to help educate the Stillwater Law Fair teams about trials and courtrooms. He answered the students’ questions about courtroom procedures, the roles of attorneys, plaintiffs, defendants, and juries. He also volunteered to serve as the judge at the Stillwater school assembly when the winning Law Fair cases were performed.
“It was an honor and privilege for me to support the students at Stillwater Township School as they participated in Law Fair,” said Neidhardt. “It was a rewarding way to help young students learn through a mock trial competition and a wonderful opportunity to give back to the community.”
To learn more or share with teachers about the New Jersey State Bar Foundation’s mock trial programs, please visit mocktrial.njsbf.org.
To volunteer to be a mock trial coach or judge for the 2025-2026 season (starting this fall), visit volunteer.njsbf.org
Excerpts from this article were published in the March 3, 2025 issue of The Bar Report.