Two Santa Ana Unified School District schools faced each other in the 3rd round of the CRF Mock Trial competition as Santa Ana High took on Godinez Fundamental at Orange County Courthouse, with presiding Judge Nathan Vu on November 14. 

Students prepare at length before competing throughout the year against other schools.

Although Judge Nathan Vu’s verdict was that “Tobie Clark” was presumed guilty, Santa Ana achieved victory by 31 points, 435-404. 

Round 3 of the CRF competitions was for Santa Ana’s Defense team. They had previously lost their round but came back stronger. The defense team consisted of three attorneys, the defendant, and three witnesses. Each of the Saint’s defense team members scored at least one perfect ten in their performance, collaborating in the victory for the entire team. 

The competition scorers left comments behind for the team to see. One comment that stood out was, “Nice job, very believable because kept in character for all questions. Good extra commentary to help the case. 10+++.” This comment was directed to the MVP of the trial which was the defendant, Tobie Clark, played by SAHS junior Brandon Dominguez. 

“It was unexpected, to be honest,” Dominguez said of being nominated MVP. “It’s my first year here and it’s my first time really acting in front of an audience and I just don’t know what to expect so just being able to win MVP, especially over my lawyers who are very experienced and who I thought did a much better job than me is something rewarding.”  

Legal studies teacher and coach Mr. Mitchell expressed his gratitude to the team and had wise words for them. He was incredibly proud of his students and competitors for turning such a hard case into something amazing that many were able to understand if they were watching from the sidelines. He recommends those who are interested in any type of law to join the team and join Santa Ana’s Mock Trial team for the next case happening next semester, “The J Serra case.”  

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