The team’s undefeated start places them in a strong position as they navigate a challenging road toward the state championships.

This year’s case, provided by the Hawaii State Bar Association, involves a complex defamation suit centered on a fictional scandal. The legal battle explores allegations that a news organization planted bed bugs in a hotel to orchestrate a sensational news story. In a grueling test of legal agility, the Maui Prep team litigated as the Plaintiff in the morning session before pivoting to represent the Defendant in the same case during the afternoon. Their ability to successfully argue both sides of the aisle resulted in a clean sweep for the day.

Under the guidance of advisors Jessica Lucia, Ralph Pais, and Kelly LaPrade, the student-attorneys and witnesses have spent weeks poring over warrants, witness accounts, forensic evidence, and financial records. Each member of the team plays a vital role in the two-hour proceedings, which consist of twelve minutes of opening statements, thirty-six minutes of direct and cross-examinations, and eighteen minutes of closing arguments. Whether delivering impassioned speeches, managing the courtroom as bailiffs, or undergoing intense questioning as witnesses, the students must mirror the professionalism of real-world legal experts to earn points from the presiding judges.

The team’s journey continues this coming Saturday as they face off against two more schools, once again alternating between the roles of prosecution and defense. These upcoming matches are critical; the results will determine if Maui Prep advances to the final round at the Supreme Court in Oahu on Saturday, March 7.

The 2026 Maui Prep Mock Trial team includes Anna Nguyen, Isaac Goudreau, Kai DaProza, Caleb Gray, Ty Parnell, Scout Smith, Kestrel Marshall, Dylan LaPrade, Madison Goldsmith, Arianne Chacon, Kaia Reader, and Stella Garnier.