First mock trial set for Friday

Pre-law students plan to test their skills during the first undergraduate mock criminal trial scheduled for Friday. The event begins at 9 a.m. in Room 401 at the Robert R. Muntz Library. The Pre-law society is sponsoring a complementary breakfast at 8 a.m.

The trial is being set up as a replica of a courtroom with drama for entertainment.

“We have launched a mock criminal trial where juniors and seniors were chosen, to participate in the hypothetical fact pattern, where the alleged defendant is charged with an alleged arson and murder,” said Dr. Katherine Pang, assistant professor of criminal justice.

Liz Green, Lorna Harris, and Tricia Mehler are portraying the prosecuting attorneys. The defense team is made up of Natalie Hughes and Maegan Westbrook.

“It’s like a Law and Order episode,” said Westbrook. “It’s really exciting to be one of the exemplary chosen to participate, and it will give us a heads-up for law school.”

Green agreed, saying, “The mock criminal trail provides really good information along with an idea of how the legal process works.”

The trial is scheduled to have a three-judge panel that includes Ronnie Van Baugh, criminal law attorney; Cynthia Stevens-Kent, attorney-mediator and former Smith County Judge; and Jason Parrish, assistant Smith County District Attorney.

“This is a big deal and there are many esteemed members of the local legal community who are volunteering their valuable time to contribute to the knowledge of UT students,” said Pang.

Faculty and staff from various departments, distinguished members of the community and students are among the volunteers participating as witnesses and jury members. “This is an excellent opportunity for UT Tyler students to really shine in our community,” said Mehler.

By Amy Weatherholtz Staff Writer