On Friday, October 28, 2025, the Clay County Clerk of Court and Comptroller’s Office, in partnership with Teen Court of Clay County, FL, Inc., proudly hosted the Northeast Florida Mock Trial Invitational at the Judge A. Wilkes Judicial Complex in Green Cove Springs.
The invitational brought together bright young minds from across Northeast Florida for a day of spirited competition, professionalism, and hands-on learning in a real courtroom setting.
Circuit and county judges — the Honorable Steven Whittington, Honorable Kenneth Janesk II, Honorable Robert Pickens III, Honorable James Kallaher, and Honorable Raymond Forbess Jr. — graciously presided over the competition rounds.
Serving as the event’s scoring judges were esteemed members of the local legal community, including attorneys Angelique Kelley, Christine Leonard, Beth Sammons, and Shelby Serig, along with Problem Solving Courts Manager Angela Sheppard and retired Teen Court Director Deborah Mueller.
Teen Court’s team was coached Kendra New, Esq. (Head Coach) and Audrea Stewart.
Three teams representing the 4th and 7th Judicial Circuits participated: Beachside High School, Nease High School, and Teen Court of Clay County, FL, Inc. Each team competed in two rigorous rounds of mock trial proceedings.
Following strong performances from all participants, Teen Court of Clay County, FL, Inc. earned top honors as the overall champion.
Outstanding individual performances were also recognized.
Recognized as the event’s Top Attorneys were Hannalora Chapple, Bradley Wells, and Charles “Cash” Stewart, while Top Witnesses were Jackson Curtis, Emma Wilbur, Tinley Shaw, and Alora Brown. Notably, Jackson Curtis achieved a “perfect rank,” being rated the top witness by all three judges in both rounds.
The event highlighted the collaboration between the legal community and local youth programs, reinforcing the value of experiential learning and civic engagement through Teen Court.
“Congratulations to everyone involved – what an impressive group of young people,” commented Clay County Clerk of Court and Comptroller Tara S. Green in her opening message as she welcomed all participants.
For more information about our Teen Court program, read more here.
