Independence High School’s Mock Trial Team is celebrating a strong showing at the Ohio High School Mock Trial District Competition, successfully advancing to the Regional Competition taking place this Friday. With a potential path to the State Competition in March, the Blue Devils continue to showcase their academic excellence, teamwork, and courtroom skills.
Sponsored by the Ohio Center for Law-Related Education (OCLRE), the High School Mock Trial program provides students with an authentic, hands-on experience exploring the law and judicial system through simulated courtroom trials. Students take on roles as attorneys and witnesses while developing critical thinking, public speaking, and analytical skills.
The Independence team members include Vinny Carmean, Carmen Chen, Jules Cherny, Gio Hasrouvni, Matthew Liepert, Sahej Rai, Adriana Randjelovic, Rylee Shepard and Maya Toth. Their preparation and collaboration paid off during the district competition, where several students earned individual recognition for their performances.
Adriana Randjelovic received a “Best Attorney Award” for her outstanding advocacy during trial, while Gio Hasrouvni and Vinny Carmean were each honored with “Best Witness Awards” for their compelling courtroom portrayals.
The team’s success is guided by longtime advisor Wayne Benos, whose dedication and leadership have helped many Independence students develop confidence, professionalism, and a deeper understanding of the legal process. His continued commitment to the Mock Trial program has played an important role in fostering a culture of excellence and opportunity for student participants.
Ohio’s Mock Trial competition follows a three-tiered format, beginning with district competitions and advancing through regional rounds, with top teams ultimately competing at the state level in March.
The team’s advancement reflects months of preparation, research, and dedication as students analyzed complex legal issues and practiced courtroom procedures. As they prepare for Regionals this week, the Independence High School Mock Trial Team continues to represent the district with professionalism, confidence, and academic excellence.
Congratulations to the entire team, and best of luck as they continue their journey toward the State Competition!
