The North Royalton High School Mock Trial team delivered an outstanding performance at the 2024 Ohio High School District Competition on January 26 at the Cuyahoga County Courthouse & Justice Center. The team finished among the top 14 out of 37 teams, earning a coveted spot to compete at the regional level on February 16.
Guided by legal advisor Lydia Cancilla, 11 North Royalton students invested months preparing complex legal arguments around timely 8th amendment, conspiracy and property forfeiture issues. Their dedication paid off when the team traveled to the Elyria Municipal Court for their regional competition trial.
Three students took home individual honors for their superb skills demonstrated before Honorable Gary C. Bennet. Naish Chopra and Hope Piasecki won Outstanding Witness awards, while Grady Bokoch was named Outstanding Attorney.
"Our success is a testament to the countless hours students gave in and out of practice," said teacher advisor Rachael Sladky. "I am so proud of how they shone in the courtroom."