As a first step toward meeting the goal of raising $200,000 to meet the National High School Mock Trial Championship’s needs, the Wisconsin Law Foundation has weighed in as the fundraising effort’s first Golden Gavel Sponsor by committing a lead gift of $25,000.

Oct. 16, 2013 – Madison is the host city for the 2014 National High School Mock Trial Championship, May 9-11. The event is expected to attract approximately 1,100 participants and observers from 42 states, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and South Korea.

With many students, coaches, and observers descending on downtown for the intensive three-day competition, the State Bar is calling on lawyers and community members to help create the best learning experience possible for students.

The State Bar’s National Mock Trial Fundraising Committee has set a goal of $200,000 to cover the cost of materials for students and judges, security and rental costs for venues, team awards, student-based activities, and the final banquet and dance – a long-standing tradition at the National Mock Trial Championship.

The State Bar of Wisconsin and its charitable arm, the Wisconsin Law Foundation, launched an online giving campaign. To donate online, visit nationalmocktrial2014.wisbar.org and select the Donate Now button. All donations are tax deductible.

Checks can also be made out to the Wisconsin Law Foundation and mailed to P.O. Box 7158 Madison, WI 53707-7158. The group also welcomes multi-year donations, which must be made by Feb. 1, 2014.