University of West FloridaMock Trial Courtroom

Brief History of the ProjectProposed at a Criminal Justice and Legal

Studies Department faculty retreat almost 5 years ago

Department Chairperson and CoPS Dean both fully supported the idea

Fundraising efforts began shortly after thatDean pledged a classroom to use for the

projectSeveral faculty from the School of Justice

Studies and Social Work have assisted in the planning and completion of the project since the beginning

Fundraising EffortsRaised over $225,000, including private

donations, faculty donations, and grantsSupport came primarily from local law firms,

lawyers, judges, Florida Bar Foundation, and paralegal and other professional associations

Future fundraising efforts are planned

Courtroom FeaturesApproximately 1500 square feetAudio and video conferencingRecording capabilities to analyze team

performanceAdvanced evidence presentation systemSmart podium for DVD, VCR, and PowerPoint

presentationsWireless Crestron system controlTechnology on par with current high tech

courtrooms

Planned Uses for CourtroomPractice and intercollegiate competition site

for the UWF Mock Trial Team Local law firmsHigh school mock trial competitionsClassroom for law-related coursesCourt proceedings (Div. of Administrative

Hearings)Law enforcement courtroom trainingTeen Court hearings