Law and Leadership Mock Trial: The prosecution team objects to a question during the examination of a witness.

Law and Leadership Mock Trial: The prosecution team objects to a question during the examination of a witness.

Eighth-grade students hoping to participate in the Law and Leadership Institute summer program have until April 15 to apply online, according to deputy director Reina Sims.

The institute seeks to provide an opportunity for students from underserved communities to learn skills that may help them become lawyers and leaders in their communities. The program enriches high school instruction through a four-year academic program in law, leadership, analytical thinking, problem solving, writing skills, and professionalism.

Once accepted, rising freshman students will begin the five-week program on June 24. The program will culminate with a Mock Trial competition on July 26, featuring students from institute program locations across the state.

The summer program serves as a free bridge program for students progressing from middle school to high school. In addition to the academic enrichment, leadership training, legal curriculum, daily professional speakers and field trips, students are provided free lunch and healthy snacks throughout their program day. Free transportation on local public transportation routes is also provided.

The institute began in 2008 as a summer program at law schools in two cities serving 40 students. It has evolved into a year-round program at eight of Ohio’s nine law schools in six cities (Akron, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, and Toledo) serving more than 400 students.

All nine law schools collaborate with the Ohio Supreme Court, the Ohio State Bar Association, and the Ohio Center for Law-Related Education. Because of the financial support of the Ohio State Bar Foundation and Law School Admission Council, the first class of institute alumni will complete their freshman year of college this May.

For more information, visit www.lawandleadership.org.