(WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.)- Lake Shore Middle School students took center stage at the Judge Daniel T. K. Hurley Courthouse, in downtown West Palm Beach, to present their mock trial before The Honorable Danielle Sherriff of The Fifteenth Circuit Judiciary, on Thursday, Jan. 25.
The event not only showcased the students' keen understanding of the legal system but also highlighted the collaborative effort between the school, the legal community, and the presence of local dignitaries in the audience.
Judge Danielle Sherriff, a distinguished bilingual jurist fluent in both English and Haitian Creole, presided over the mock trial. She holds the distinction of being the first Haitian American woman appointed to the bench in Palm Beach County.
With a wealth of experience in trials, investigations, criminal law, hearings, criminal justice, personal injury, and civil litigation, Judge Sherriff brought a seasoned perspective to the proceedings. The decision to have Judge Sheriff preside was intentional, as organizers aimed to provide the students with a relatable role model.
The mock trial program, tailored to middle school students, unfolded over two or more class periods, culminating in an in-court recorded trial simulation. Attorney Kanisha Taylor, serving as the volunteer attorney, played a pivotal role in guiding and facilitating the mock trial.
"This is an amazing partnership between the school and FRLS," said Kanisha Taylor, Regional Managing Attorney. "Every day that I am there, I get to speak to different staff members about the work we do for the Glades community."
Local dignitaries, including South Bay Mayor Joe Kyles Sr. and Vice Mayor Betty Barnard, Belle Glade Vice Mayor Joaquin Almazan, and Tammy Jackson-Moore, of Guardians of the Glades, were among the audience members, underscoring the significance of the students' achievements.
Program Objectives:
1. Increase Legal System Understanding: The program aimed to deepen students' comprehension and interest in the legal system, fostering a nuanced understanding of courtroom proceedings and legal principles.
2. Generate Interest in Law-Related Careers: By providing students with a hands-on experience, the mock trial program aimed to inspire interest in law-related careers, offering a glimpse into the diverse opportunities within the legal field.
3. Improve Civic and Literacy Skills: The initiative focused on enhancing crucial civic and literacy skills, including critical thinking, public speaking, and legal reasoning, thereby nurturing well-rounded and informed citizens.
The mock trial not only provided students with a practical understanding of the legal process but also ignited a passion for the law and its applications.
In a gesture of support and mentorship, the Black Women Lawyers' Association, led by Sheree Davis Cunningham, sponsored a lunch for students.
About Florida Rural Legal Services (FRLS)
Florida Rural Legal Services (FRLS) is a prominent non-profit law firm dedicated to providing free legal services to low-income individuals and communities in 14 counties and migrant farmworkers across the state. With a rich history of commitment to justice and equality, FRLS has become a steadfast advocate for those who face barriers in accessing legal assistance.
