High school students can experience 'Moot Court'

This summer, high school students can experience what it’s like to argue a case before the Michigan Supreme Court, thanks to a program being offered by the Court’s Learning Center.

Rachael Drenovsky, the Learning Center’s coordinator, explained the program features participation in a “moot court,” in which participants prepare and argue a case.

“The goal is to have the participants experience what it’s like to argue a case before the Supreme Court,” she said. “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.

Participants will meet and work with attorneys and other legal professionals; presenters will include members of the judiciary. The program will be held at the Michigan Hall of Justice in Lansing.

“Exploring Careers in the Law” is open to students entering grades 10 through 12 in fall 2015 and 2015 graduates. Participants meet July 20–24 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each day. The application deadline is Friday, 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, selected on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact Rachael L. Drenovsky at 517-373-5027 or drenovskyr@courts.mi.gov.