By Haley Bohlmann, Communications Director & Chief Editor
Des Moines welcomed nearly 500 student competitors and approximately 1,500 total attendees between May 6-9 as the 2026 National High School Mock Trial Championship returned to Iowa, the birthplace of the national tournament. Hosted by The Iowa State Bar Association, its Young Lawyers Division, and a statewide and nationwide network of attorneys, judges, and volunteers, the four-day event transformed downtown courtrooms into a national stage for civic education and student advocacy.
After two days of competition, Lakeland Christian School of Florida was crowned the 2026 National High School Mock Trial Champion following the final round held on May 9 at the Polk County Historic Courthouse. Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice Susan Christensen presided over the championship round between Lakeland Christian School and Northview High School of Georgia, bringing the national event to a close.
The championship holds special significance for Iowa’s legal community. In 1984, Iowa hosted the very first National High School Mock Trial Championship. Forty-two years later, the competition returned to Des Moines, bringing together state champion teams from across the country to compete before panels of volunteer attorney-judges.
Throughout the week, students participated not only in courtroom simulations but also in civic and educational programming designed to immerse them in Iowa’s legal community and culture. Drake University hosted the tournament’s longstanding pin exchange tradition at Drake Stadium, while an Iowa State Fair-inspired celebration introduced students to one of Iowa’s most recognizable traditions.
ISBA Center for Law and Civic Education Director John Wheeler said one of the most memorable parts of the week was seeing students experience Des Moines together outside the courtroom. “Seeing those kids all over Des Moines was special,” Wheeler said. “And it was not about who was going to win. But who is posting the best video.”
This year’s mock trial case was uniquely rooted in Des Moines itself. Written by Wheeler, the fictional case incorporated recognizable local landmarks and references to the city as part of the competition narrative.
In addition to the courtroom competition, students from across the country participated in Courtroom Journalist and Courtroom Artist competitions, highlighting the broader civic education mission of the championship. Student journalists covered proceedings as working reporters while courtroom artists documented trials through sketches, reflecting traditions still used in courtrooms where cameras are prohibited.
For many students, the championship represented more than a competition. It served as an introduction to the legal profession, public service, and the role courts play in civic life. For Iowa’s legal community, it was an opportunity to showcase the state’s longstanding commitment to civic education and the future of the profession.
Championship week in motion:
Pin Exchange at Drake University:
Students compete in the Historic Polk County Courthouse:
Friday at the Fair student celebration:
