Aaron Burr Historic Mock Trial

In a partnership with the Rendell Center, the 6th grade founders of Masterman School Mock Trial Club conducted a mock trial based on a script they created during their lunch break. In the Supreme Court's Philadelphia courtroom, Justice Kevin M. Dougherty presided over the fictitious trial in the aftermath of duel between Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton in which Hamilton was slain. The prosecution and defense called three witnesses each, including Mr. Burr and Eliza, Mr. Hamilton's widow. After a spirited trial, the jury deliberated while Justice Dougherty and Historical Commission member, Commonwealth Court Judge Lori A. Dumas, spoke to the rest of the students about the judiciary and its role in the Commonwealth's government. Ultimately the jury was unable to reach a verdict, but when questioned the prosecution vowed to prosecute Mr. Burr again. In attendance were parents of the Mock Trial Club founders and fifth graders who will follow in their fellow students steps next school year.