FREEHOLD, NJ - The Superior Court of New Jersey, Monmouth Vicinage will host mock trial events during the last two weeks in January as part of the 2013 Vincent J. Apruzzese High School Mock Trial Competition.

Assignment Judge Lawrence M. Lawson said, "The Monmouth Vicinage looks forward to collaboration with attorneys and community members to provide a challenging, interactive experience for students in the mock trial competition. We hope to have a positive impact on their future endeavors as they develop greater respect and understanding of the legal system."

Approximately 20 private and public schools in Monmouth County will join the competition at the courthouse. This year's mock trial program features a fictional civil case involving the use of an alleged dangerous product on a show dog.

A number of Superior Court and Municipal Court judges have volunteered to preside over the mock trials. In addition, more than 100 members of the Monmouth Bar Association will serve as coaches and judges.

In the preliminary mock trials, sponsored by county bar associations throughout New Jersey, local high school students compete against each other as they assume the roles of plaintiffs, defendants, attorneys, and witnesses. Winners of the county finals will advance to the regional semi-finals, which are followed by the state championship competition.

For information on the mock trial schedule, contact the trial court administrator's office at 732-677-4212.