Pulaski County Bar Association presents Mock Trail for law week

May 12-18, 2014

Law week stems from May 1, the day the United States officially recognizes as Law Day. This day is set aside to reflect on the role of the law in the foundation of our country and to recognize its importance for society. Law Day also provides an opportunity to recognize the role of the courts and the role of the jury service in maintaining the integrity of the courts. 

Traditionally, the PCBA presents a mock trial to a group of children to help them understand the inner workings of a court room. This year members from the PCBA met in Judge Barry Sims court room at the Pulaski County Courthouse to present a mock trial over a drug possession charge. Judge Patti James presided, while Melanie Martin acted as prosecutor and Bill James represented the defendant. 

The students, children from the Joseph Pfeifer Kiwanis Camp, acted as the jury in the case.

The simulation was so real, after the students had found the defendant not guilty, one student asked, “Was this real?”

Judge James answered no, but preceded to explain that the simulation was true to form.  

About Law Day: 

In 1957, American Bar Association (ABA) President Charles S. Rhyne, a Washington D.C. attorney, envisioned a special day for celebrating our legal system. In 1958, President Dwight D. Eisenhower established Law Day as a day of national dedication to the principles of government under law. In 1961, Congress, by joint resolution, designated May 1st as the official date for celebrating Law Day.

The 2014 Law Day theme, as set by the American Bar Association, is “American Democracy and the Rule of Law: Why Every Vote Matters.” As we approach the 50th anniversaries of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, we are called to reflect on the importance of a citizen’s right to vote and the challenges we still face in ensuring that all Americans have the opportunity to participate in our democracy.