Tyee Mock Trial Club aims to enrich students' experience in law, trial advocacy, and critical thinking. Hosted by the YMCA Youth & Government program, this seasonal competition brings together 8th graders from over 13 middle schools across the region. Tyee will be the pioneer team in the Bellevue School District.
Students are expected to learn courtroom mechanics, objections, and formal evidentiary procedure while learning to deconstruct complex legal affidavits and build persuasive rhetoric.
Active Courtroom Roles: Students take on roles as Student Attorneys (conducting opening statements, direct examinations, and objections), Witnesses (memorizing affidavits, portraying characters, and withstanding cross-examination), and Court Officers (managing decorum, timing, and proceedings).
Dual-Side Case Preparation: Students prepare both Prosecution/Plaintiff and Defense sides of an official YMCA legal case.
Mentorship: Volunteer attorneys provide expert legal coaching. Experienced high school Mock Trial student leaders may provide coach support.
Official Roster Limits: Per YMCA rules, an official team requires 7 to 16 students who are currently in 8th grade. If interest exceeds 16 students, a second team may be formed (subject to YMCA capacity) or an alternate roster will be managed. If fewer than 7 students register, program registration refunds will be issued.
Expectations: Regular attendance, active participation, and completion of assigned preparation are required.
Note: 6th and 7th grade students are welcome to register in this club, but not eligible for YMCA competition.
Registration Link: https://tyeeptsa.org/Packet/MockTrialApplication
Club Fee: $50 per student. non-refundable, due upon registration
Competition Registration Fee: $50 per student, due after joining. (covers YMCA registration fees).
* PTSA Membership required prior to registration, please renew here if you haven't done so already
