WILMINGTON — Wilmington College’s mock trial team will demonstrate their legal skills in a staged homicide trial from 6-9 p.m. Dec. 3 in Room 121 of WC’s Boyd Cultural Arts Center.
The public is invited to be part of the courtroom gallery — and possibly the jury — for the hearing of the fictional case file, State of Midlands vs. Jordan Ryder, which is provided by the American Mock Trial Association.
The trial will determine the fate of Jordan Ryder, a fictitious mother accused of killing her 12-year-old daughter in a remote campground in the fictional state of Midlands.
Students representing the prosecution and defense will call witnesses, present exhibits, argue evidentiary objections and make opening and closing statements, according to team adviser, Katie Wright, assistant professor of criminal justice.
Judge Mike Daugherty of the Clinton County Municipal Court will judge the case. He is a WC alumnus with a Juris Doctorate from the University of Dayton. He was appointed to the bench in 2015.
Wright said the evening should offer a fascinating look at a murder trail with role-playing by students interested in criminal justice and pre-law.
“Our team members have been working hard this semester learning the facts of the case, studying the law, and honing their trial skills,” she said. “I am looking forward to seeing them in action.”
Wright, who is co-coaching this year’s team along with Katie Wilkin, Clinton County assistant prosecutor, encourages students to attend if they are interested in law, criminal justice or in joining the team.
