Thurgood Marshall High School Mock Trial

The California Lawyers Associations IP Section completed its first annual mock trial with Thurgood Marshall Academic High School on October 23, 2018 at the Golden Gate University School of Law. In collaboration with GGU School of Law, IPPLA, and La Raza, this great event included students from the Thurgood Marshall High School, Hon. Maria-Elena James (Ret.), Professor Dennis and Professor Franklyn from GGU School of law, four law students, Erica Bristol, John Pavolotsky, and Marina Lewis. The High School students were given a hypothetical trademark infringement action (“Fortnite” and “Fort Day” trademarks) between two software gaming companies. The High School team was divided into plaintiff and defendant teams, and they argued the law using a shortened list of the Du Pont factors for “likelihood of confusion.” The students created opening and closing statements, prepared their clients and witnesses for trial, and developed questions for each party.

The mock trial program introduced IP law to an economically disadvantaged school where access to information on IP and STEM based-careers might not be available. This program allowed GGU students, Professors, and volunteers to work with high schools, other student-run organizations, the CLA IP section, and helped up develop relationships with local communities by educating and introducing students to IP Law.

GGU IPPLA hopes to put on another great mock trial with the CLA IP Section next year. Below are some photos from the event!