Mock Trial Introduces Berkeley College Legal Studies Students to the Courtroom
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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MONDAY, APRIL 22, 2019 |
Contact: Ilene Greenfield Director of Media Relations 973-278-5400, ext. 1-5122 igl@BerkeleyCollege.edu |
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MOCK TRIAL INTRODUCES BERKELEY COLLEGE LEGAL STUDIES STUDENTS TO THE COURTROOM |
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Photo Caption: Berkeley College students pursuing careers in the legal field had an opportunity to step into professional roles during a recent mock trial held at Berkeley College in Woodland Park, NJ. The trial encouraged students in the Legal Research and Writing course led by Professor Debra Stephans, JD, Legal Studies, Berkeley College School of Professional Studies, to think about issues of law and justice as they consider careers in law enforcement and the courts. The students served in roles on the prosecution and defense teams and prepared opening statements, direct and cross-examinations of witnesses, and closing arguments. The fictitious case focused on alleged emotional distress related to a bullying incident at a high school. Ms. Stephans, whose professional legal experience includes work with the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General and Benjamin Moore & Co., said the exercise was beneficial to students and their future careers. “A mock trial offers students invaluable experience by engaging them in how the judicial system works,” Ms. Stephans said. “The exercise also develops their analytical and communication skills and helps them to understand the importance of their roles as attorneys and paraprofessionals.” Pictured (above right) is Berkeley College student Nikita Kelly of Jersey City, NJ, in her role as attorney for the plaintiff. Discussing the case (top left) are Berkeley College students Maria Zolofra-Kinsey of Parlin, Jessenia Camino of Elizabethport, Jennifer Kim of Norwood, and Viktoria Poposki of Kinnelon, who served on the prosecution team. Pictured at the defense table (bottom left) are Rebecca Watsey of South River, Julio Moreno of Clifton, Robin Snell of Nutley, Stasia Lopez of Paterson, and Susy Medina of Paramus, who served on the defense team. (Below) Students in the Legal Research and Writing course at Berkeley College pose with Professor Stephans (front row, center).
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