The East Texas Chapter held its 7th Amendment Symposium in Henderson, Texas with over 70 Junior and Senior high school students participating. They heard from the judges of the Justice Court, County Court, County Court at Law, and District Court. There were also treated to a voir dire demonstration performed by David Hill and Clay Wilder. The students were then served a buffet style pizza lunch on the courthouse lawn.
After lunch, the students observed and participated in a student lead mock civil jury trial in which students also served as jurors. This was presided over by James Clay Gossett, Judge of the 4th District Court of Rusk County, Texas. The student jury of 14 students (two alternates) deliberated in the jury room and rendered a verdict for the plaintiff in a car-pedestrian injury claim.
Each student received a pocket constitution and other ABOTA swag. Students were also awarded gift cards for correctly answering questions on the material covered earlier in the day. It was a great day. Thanks to all at the home office for the support and the ABOTA swag. The students always enjoy this event. It has become a very popular event for with students and courthouse personnel.
Click here for The Henderson News article.