The high school mock trial experience builds confidence and helps students master legal procedures, turning them and their advisors into a cohesive, high-performing team.

In just two years, the Scotia-Glenville Mock Trial Club has qualified for the state competition at the Federal James T. Foley Courthouse in Albany, scheduled for May 19-20. Eight teams from across New York will compete for the state championship. 

Attorney Jason Frament expresses his honor and privilege in coaching these students, noting their exceptional confidence and respect for the rule of law. “Several judges have remarked that these students are better trial lawyers than some actual attorneys they see in court! The ability to think on one’s feet is crucial for a trial lawyer, and this team has gone above and beyond to establish itself as the best, not only in Schenectady County but in the entire region,” he said. On Saturday, April 26, at the Schenectady County Courthouse, Scotia-Glenville held three trials in one day, winning all three matches against Pine Plains (Dutchess County), Greenwich (Washington County), and Albany (Albany County), thereby winning the Regional Tournament.

Mentors Mr. Frament, faculty advisor Andrea DeMento, and health science teacher and coach Maggie Healy provide invaluable guidance, encouragement, and expertise, helping the Scotia-Glenville Mock Trial Club refine their skills and grow as individuals. They all noted the incredible growth of the students, from their first practice to their current level, and praised their dedication, especially since they work on mock trial outside of school hours, unlike other schools that offer it.

Determination and leadership with an eye on justice

Senior Nicole Fernandez is the founder and captain of the Scotia-Glenville Mock Trial Club. As an immigrant to the United States, her early experiences navigating legal documents sparked a deep desire to understand the law. She recalls struggling to comprehend the legal jargon in papers her family encountered, despite being fluent in English. This disconnect fueled her ambition to become an attorney—someone who could bridge the gap for others and empower them to navigate the complexities of the legal system. (She shares her journey in this video.) When Nicole entered high school, she noticed a lack of clubs that catered to students interested in law, critical thinking, and public speaking.

Driven by her passion, she initially set out to start a debate club. However, after meeting with an advisor and a student captain from the neighboring Mohonasen High School, she discovered mock trial—a club that perfectly aligned with her vision. Mock trial offers students the opportunity to assume roles as attorneys and witnesses, fostering teamwork and providing hands-on experience in the legal world. Nicole’s leadership was instrumental in reviving the mock trial club at Scotia-Glenville High School.

She began by recruiting advisors and members, approaching students with enthusiasm and explaining the benefits of joining. Her efforts led to a large turnout at the interest meeting, although the rigorous commitment required for mock trial caused some students to drop out. Undeterred, Nicole focused on building a dedicated team. Under her guidance, the club grew stronger, and in its first year, they advanced to regionals—just one trial away from going to the state tournament. 

As the team captain and an attorney, Nicole’s practices focus on creating a cohesive narrative, ensuring every team member contributes to the overarching theme of the case. Her dedication inspires her teammates, and her ability to handle the pressure of trials with grace and determination sets the tone for the entire club. As she prepares for the upcoming state competition, wearing her lucky “mock trial shoes,” she reminds us how challenges can be turned into opportunities.