The JGHC Summer Scholars Institute Mock Trial Intensive is an immersive camp for high school students interested in law and courtroom procedures. Led by Maria Gerber—a USF alumna and experienced attorney with nearly 30 years of practice in Florida—this program provides students with essential skills in legal advocacy, critical thinking, and public speaking.
With support from collegiate mock trial competitors, students will explore courtroom fundamentals, including opening statements, cross-examinations, and closing arguments. The camp culminates in a mock trial held at Stetson Law School, giving participants real-world experience in a professional setting and a valuable introduction to the legal field.
JGHC Mock Trial Intensive Details
Camp Director: Maria Gerber, Esq.
Location: USF Tampa - College of Engineering (DFX Lab)
Grade Levels: Entering 10th - 12th
Dates: TBD
Time: 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Cost: TBD
What to Expect
Hands-On Legal Training for High Schoolers
Your child will gain an introduction to the American legal system through hands-on training in courtroom procedures. Guided by collegiate competitors and law students, they’ll learn courtroom decorum, trial strategies, and participate in stop-and-go drills to refine their skills.
Rigorous Skill Development and Real-World Practice
This intensive program requires commitment and practice outside the classroom. Students will develop critical thinking, rhetorical skills, and public speaking, all essential for advocacy. Each day brings challenging exercises that prepare them for the final mock trial at Stetson Law School.
Exclusive Insights from Law Experts
Throughout the week, students will attend panels with legal experts and law school admissions leaders. Highlights include a panel with faculty experts, an admissions talk by Stetson Law’s Dean of Admissions, and career insights from practicing legal professionals.
Showcase Trial and Award Ceremony
The experience culminates in a full mock trial at Stetson Law School, where families can watch students put their skills to the test. The trial is followed by a closing reception and award ceremony, celebrating each participant’s growth and achievements.
The JGHC Mock Trial Intensive offers high school students a unique chance to dive into the world of law and gain real courtroom experience in Sarasota-Manatee. Led by accomplished attorney Maria Gerber, a USF alumna with nearly 30 years of legal experience, this program equips students with essential advocacy, critical thinking, and public speaking skills. Participants will receive hands-on training from collegiate competitors and law students, building their confidence and proficiency in courtroom procedures.
Beyond skill development, this week-long camp provides invaluable exposure to the legal profession, featuring panels with legal experts and culminating in a mock trial at Stetson Law School. This intensive program prepares students for future studies in law and equips them with essential communication and reasoning skills applicable in any field. Sign up now to unlock an unforgettable summer experience and take your first step toward a future in law!
Useful Information
Registration and Camp Details
When does registration open for JGHC Mock Trial Intensive?
Registration for all 2025 summer camps will open on February 1, 2025.
What is the capacity of the JGHC Mock Trial Intensive?
The JGHC Mock Trial Intensive has a capacity of 32.
What is the Judy Genshaft Honors College Summer Scholars Institute?
The Judy Genshaft Honors College Summer Scholar Institute features a series of summer camps crafted in partnership with the Judy Genshaft Honors College. These camps provide exceptional learning experiences that blend the extensive resources of a top research university with the personal attention and supportive community typically found in smaller institutions.
Who are the USF Faculty/Staff that lead the JGHC Mock Trial Intensive?
Maria Gerber graduated from Stetson College of Law in 1994 and has been licensed to practice law in Florida for 29 years. Ms. Gerber was a prosecutor for the Sixth Judicial Circuit located in Pinellas/Pasco County before going into private practice. Ms. Gerber owns and operates Gerber Law, PA and represents accident injury victims throughout Central and Southwest Florida. Ms. Gerber is a Florida native, and graduate of the University of South Florida. She has taught search and seizure and use of force at the police academy, and criminal procedure and constitutional law to high school students. She owns and operates INVICTUS Advocacy Academy which trains high school students in forensics, including speech, debate, moot court and mock trial. She has coached state, regional and national champions in all genres. Ms. Gerber has coached collegian mock trial and moot court. Her primary areas of focus are rhetoric, logic and the art of persuasion which she teaches by utilizing her experience, education and training as a practicing attorney. Ms. Gerber has a sincere heart and particular passion for instructing the youth in mock trial.
Where is the JGHC Mock Trial Intensive located?
The JGHC Mock Trial Intensive is located at the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus. The camp's location is 8350 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34243
What time is drop-off and pick-up for the JGHC Mock Trial Intensive?
Our staff will be ready to welcome your child for drop-off at 8:50 AM in front of the USF Sarasota-Manatee Campus, with pick-up starting at 4:00 PM. If you are running late for drop-off or pick-up, please call our office at (813) 974-3355 to let us know.
Residential Options
Are there residential options availale for the JGHC Mock Trial Intensive?
Unfortunately, on-campus accommodations are not available for the JGHC Mock Trial Intensive. However, we have two hotels listed below that are in close proximity to the campus and have been popular choices for campers in the past. Additionally, we’re happy to provide recommendations for nearby hotels and other lodging options to ensure a comfortable stay. Please let us know if you need any assistance!
Policies
What is the refund/cancellation policy?
USF reserves the right to cancel camps, in which case registration fees are fully refunded. If it becomes necessary for USF to cancel, postpone or combine camps, or change a camp location, you will be notified by email or phone. It is important that we have your current contact information. If a camp is cancelled, you will receive a full refund. If a registration is received after the enrollment limit has been reached, a full refund will be issued.
If you need to cancel a camp registration, please email USF Youth Experiences. If the cancellation occurs 10 days prior to camp start date a full refund will be received with the exception of administration fees. However, if the cancellation is received within 10 business days of the camp start date, no refund will be given. No refunds will be issued after the start date of the camp.
Take a look at photos from last year's JGHC Mock Trial Intensive
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