Lynden Students Impress at Mock Trial

A classful of senior AP U.S. Government and Politics students at Lynden High School capped the year with the culminating experience of a full-fledged mock trial. This year, 28 Lynden seniors traveled to the Whatcom County Courthouse in Bellingham to engage in a mock trial in front of Washington State Superior Court Judge Evan Jones. 

As Lynden alumni and students weighed the evidence from the jury box, Judge Jones directed the trial, ruling on objections and granting students the experience of working in front of a real judge. 

Throughout three consecutive trials, students served as witnesses and layers, presented opening and closing arguments, argued points of admissibility of evidence, engaged in direct and cross examinations and played vibrant characters on the witness stand. 

Jordan VanderVeen, Lynden teacher, says that with graduation next on the agenda for the students, they will conclude their Lynden experience with “aplomb,” self-confidence to propel them in demanding situations.