Program Changes for 2007-08

There are a number of changes to the program for the upcoming year that you should be aware of:

• Three major changes to the Judicial Program:
  • The local Mock Trial will now become an optional part of the program. Students will be supplied with sets of both Trial and Appeal Facts; however, the program focus from the beginning will be on preparing for the appellate activities in Springfield.
  • The format of the written document for the Appeal will be changed from a full appellate brief to a bench memo.  This will be a simplified document that emphasizes your legal argument to the court.
  • Candidates for Chief Justice will be required to have at least one year of prior experience in the Youth and Government Program.
• The Editor-in-Chief of the Newspaper will no longer be elected - the Editor will be selected by the adult Newspaper Coordinator(s).
• Most Effective Debate Award for Legislators will be given to Legislators based upon the high quality of their debate in chambers.  Details will be made available later in the year.
• An addition to the Page program in Springfield will consist of a mock debate session on Sunday.  This will likely occur during the extended break/lunch period.  More details to come.
• The Role Play will be reinstated for Presiding Officer candidates at Pre-Leg I.
• Other smaller changes will be in effect.  Your advisor will inform those whom are affected by the changes.