Top 20 VA and DC Mock Trial Teams to Compete in State Finals
Top teams to compete at Henrico County Courthouse on February 21-23, 2025
HENRICO, VA — Following intense regional competitions across Virginia and Washington, DC, the top 20 high school mock trial teams are set to compete in the 2024 Virginia and DC High School Mock Trial Championship on February 21-23 at the Henrico County Courthouse. The winning team will go on to represent Virginia and DC at the National High School Mock Trial Championship in Phoenix, Arizona, this May.
This year’s competition follows months of rigorous preparation by students, who have spent time analyzing case materials, developing case theories, crafting opening and closing statements, and refining their witness examinations. The mock trial program challenges students to develop critical thinking, teamwork, public speaking, and legal reasoning skills, all while gaining firsthand experience in courtroom procedures.
The 2025 competition case is a fictitious homicide trial centered on the suspicious death of a prominent local entrepreneur. The case raises questions about motive, forensic evidence, and competing witness testimony, putting students’ advocacy and analytical skills to the test. The competition is being held at the Henrico County Courthouse, with the support of Henrico County Commonwealth’s Attorney Shannon Taylor and courthouse staff.
“Mock trial teaches students invaluable skills that extend far beyond the courtroom,” said Kristin Walinski, Chair of the Virginia Law-Related Education Institute (VLRE). “They learn to think critically, argue persuasively, and work collaboratively. This competition offers them a unique, hands-on way to engage with the legal system. Plus, practicing lawyers have the chance to give back to the community, mentor the next generation of legal minds, and network with fellow professionals.”
The Virginia and DC High School Mock Trial Competition is hosted by the Virginia Law-Related Education Institute (VLRE), a nonprofit dedicated to educating students about the legal system while fostering leadership, analytical reasoning, and public speaking skills.
The 20 teams advancing to the state championship represent schools from Virginia and Washington, DC:
Carter G. Woodson High School
Compass Homeschool Enrichment
Henrico High School
Jackson-Reed High School
McLean High School
Langley High School
Northview Mock Trial Academy
School Without Walls
Trinity School at Meadow View
Washington International School
For more information, contact:
Kristin Walinski, Esq.
Chair, Virginia Law-Related Education Institute
(804) 517-7726
info@govlre.org
