SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. (November 12, 2015) ­– The San Bernardino County Public Attorneys Association announced today that it will be awarding grants to Mock Trial programs in San Bernardino County. Mock Trial is offered through a partnership between the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools and the San Bernardino County District Attorney. Programs selected to receive grant monies so far are the Redlands High School and Citrus Valley High School Mock Trial programs.

“Each member of SBCPAA developed an interest in criminal justice because of programs like Mock Trial,” San Bernardino County Public Attorneys Association President Michael Abacherli said. “Our association wants to ensure that every student who wishes to learn more about the criminal justice system has the opportunity to do so. A lack of funding should never keep our youth from pursuing their dreams.”

Schools were invited to apply for grant funding on the basis of financial need. Grants can be used to fund transportation, equipment and professional attire for Mock Trial participants. Mock Trial competitions are held at the courthouses in Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino and Victorville. Because of this, some schools must travel long distances and incur large costs to get students to the courthouse in order to compete. Additionally, students must dress professionally, which some students cannot afford to do.

“A lot of times these programs and students lack the funding for transportation to and from events,” Deputy Public Defender Paulette Ward said. Participants in Mock Trial are also required to dress professionally. Often students aren’t able to afford suits and professional clothing. We want to help these students get the tools they need to be successful.”

SBCPAA still has funds remaining for interested Mock Trial teams. For more information, contact SBCPAA