Local teens take part in mock trial

Some East Tennessee teenagers were in court Monday morning, but it wasn't for any wrongdoing.

Three groups of high schoolers took part in a mock trial competition in Dandridge. However, some of them are already familiar with courtrooms.

It may look like your typical courtroom, but these aren't your typical attorneys and witnesses, though they sure sound like it.

"We have three witnesses for the defense, three witnesses for the state, and we've got 6 attorneys," said mock defendant Christopher Dearstone.

"We've got a defendant that's been charged for aggravated robbery," said mock prosecutor Billy McMahan.

"The defense team and the prosecution team have been working on this since November," said mock defense attorney Alonzo Coleman.

Thirteen boys from Mountain View Development Center in Dandridge compete with teams from 2 other high schools, but the Mountain View boys have a slightly different perspective.

"They're experienced with courtroom procedure, because they've gone through it," said Jefferson County Judge Ben Strand. "They're not (there) for breaking kindergarten rules. Most of them could have as much as 3 felonies."

Strand has worked with the team for the last four months.

"I think, essentially, they're the best group I've ever had," he said. "They're real enthused about it. They've worked on their own and practiced and practiced and practiced."

"We've been acting out the courtroom audience, going over our objections," said Coleman. "We've been in and out of the case, learning the case."

Coleman says the experience has been positive, and Monday he tested his new skills. After cross-examination, closing arguments, and months of preparation, the work pays off. The group wins their first verdict.

"I feel great," Coleman said. "Feels like I'm on top of the world."

"If I can turn one around, it's been a success," said Strand.

The Mountain View team did not win the overall competition in points, but Strand says he's still proud of their effort.