On February 2, 2021, Partner Erin Ezra and Associate Walker Macon volunteered with the Constitutional Rights Foundation Orange County (CRF-OC) as Mock Trial judges.

CRF-OC is a non-profit organization promoting civic literacy, leadership and career education for Orange County youth, founded in 1981.

High school students in CRF-OC’s Mock Trial program analyze the facts of a fictional criminal court case under the guidance of volunteer attorney coaches. The school teams then present their case strategies in a simulated trial, as members of either the defense or prosecution.

The Mock Trial program allows students to interact with positive adult role models and legal practitioners in their community.

The organization’s programs also include Peer Court, a juvenile crime diversion program, and Constitution Day, an outreach program placing volunteer judges and attorneys in Orange County classrooms.

Walker and Erin viewed the competition rounds virtually, and scored the students based on rhetoric, handling of the case information, and ability to create a cohesive argument through both compelling witness and attorney performances.

Berger Kahn is happy to provide time and instruction to bright, young students in Orange County. Best of luck to the Mock Trial competitors!