St. Thomas Law Trial Team Wins Best Closing Argument Award

Opa Locka residents recognize the importance of strong advocacy, and a local institution recently showcased exceptional talent on a national stage. The St. Thomas Law Trial team competed in the 25th anniversary American Bar Association Criminal Mock Trial Competition, earning recognition for their skills.

This year's competition invited only past national champions from the last 25 years, bringing together twenty of the country's best trial team schools. The St. Thomas University team, comprised of Joseph Dewey, John Downs, Maria Catala, and Nataly Gutierrez, faced a challenging fact pattern involving a murder charge against a defendant.

Mr. Downs and Mrs. Catala represented the Prosecution, while Mr. Dewey and Ms. Gutierrez argued for the Defense. The competition required advocates to handle pre-trial motions, deliver opening statements, conduct direct and cross examinations, and present closing arguments. All four students received positive feedback from scoring jurors and judges for their performances.

Nataly Gutierrez specifically received the award for Best Closing Argument, a significant achievement in this prestigious national competition. St. Thomas University expressed pride in its student advocates for their representation.