'Moot Court' for high school students offered this summer

This summer, high school students can enjoy a “Moot Court” program offered by the Michigan Supreme Court’s Learning Center in Lansing.

“The goal is to have the participants experience what it’s like to argue a case before the Supreme Court,” said Learning Center coordinator Rachael Drenovsky. “They not only learn about the legal system, but also sharpen the skills a good lawyer needs: reasoning, writing, and oral presentation.”

The moot court case involves threats on social media. Participants will discuss what protections the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution provides and consider how to define when online ranting or threats become a crime.

Students will work with attorneys and other legal professionals; presenters will include members of the judiciary.

“Exploring Careers in the Law” is open to students entering grades 10 through 12 in fall 2015 and 2015 graduates.

Participants will meet daily from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 20–24, at the Michigan Hall of Justice in Lansing.

The application deadline is May 29. The registration fee is a $75 donation to the Michigan Supreme Court Historical Society Learning Center Fund.

Registration is limited to 22 participants, on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact Rachael L. Drenovsky at 517-373-5027 or drenovskyr@courts.mi.gov.