Volunteer to be a 2024 Iowa Middle School Mock Trial judge

Don't miss the opportunity to see these talented students, and possible future legal practitioners, in action! Register today for a single regional competition, multiple rounds, or both the regional competitions and state tournaments.

The Iowa Middle School Mock Trial Tournament is near and, once again, there is a great need for attorneys to serve as judges. This year's middle school regional competitions will be held Nov. 7 - Nov. 22, with the middle school state tournament scheduled for Dec. 2 - 4. Please check your schedule to see if you can commit to judging at the regional tournament(s) and/or at the state tournament.

Mock trial is designed to introduce students to our legal system by providing a challenging, academic competition. The program offers students an opportunity for personal growth and achievement, emphasizing the importance of research, presentation, and teamwork. In addition to teaching students about contemporary public issues and the legal system, the program encourages teachers and students to develop learning partnerships with professionals from the community. Lawyers from communities throughout Iowa contribute their time as coaches and judges at the tournaments. We hope that you will consider participating in this valuable educational program. Last year more than 2,000 students from across Iowa participated. Without the assistance of volunteer judges, these competitions would not be possible.

Volunteer judges do not have to be an attorney in order to participate. Judges will be asked to assess student performances as they take on the roles of attorneys and witnesses. Last year, more than 600 members of the bar assisted as judges and coaches in tournaments held throughout Iowa.

2024 Middle School Mock Trial Tournament regional schedule:

• Thursday, Nov. 7 - Waterloo
• Friday, Nov. 8 - Ames
• Saturday, Nov. 9 - Cedar Rapids
• Tuesday, Nov. 12 - Des Moines
• Wednesday, Nov. 13 - Des Moines
• Thursday, Nov. 14 - Council Bluffs
• Friday, Nov. 15 - Mount Vernon
• Tuesday, Nov. 19 - Sioux City
• Wednesday, Nov. 20 - Mason City
• Thursday, Nov. 21 - Marshalltown
• Friday, Nov. 22 - Davenport

The state tournament will take place Dec. 2 - 4 in Des Moines.

Please register today to volunteer as a judge.

Questions?
If you have any questions, please contact ISBA Assistant Executive Director, Harry Shipley, at 515-697-7868 or at [email protected].

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