Maya and her co-counsel, Millie, argued in moot court this evening in front of a three “judge” panel and a courtroom of spectators which included Jeanine, John and I. They have reached the semi-finals of the 16 team moot court competition. The winning side, which will be announced tomorrow after the judges have had a chance to deliberate, will proceed to the finals. They were assigned to defend California’s “Three Strikes” law, a response to the Polly Klaas abduction and murder which despite good intentions has led to some Draconian outcomes. The “lawyers” in moot court are evaluated based on a complex rubric with significant weight attached to their responses to intense questioning from the justices. Win or lose, Maya and Millie did a phenomenal job, both in preparation and in court.  Not sure what it says about their parents, but all of our children seem to be highly proficient at arguing.

UPDATE:  Maya and Millie will advance to the finals.