Hoff Curtis Defense Attorney Plays the Role of Judge:

Vermont Commons School Holds Mock Trial

Colchester, VT  — Robert Katims, a criminal defense attorney for the Burlington-based law firm of Hoff Curtis, served as the judge in a mock trial sponsored by the Vermont Commons School. The mock trial, held at St. Michael’s College’s Tarrant Student Recreation Center last week, was part of an innovative and experiential learning program the Vermont Commons School (VCS) holds for students three times a year, called Encounter Weeks.

Encounter Weeks are designed to allow VCS students an opportunity to step away from the classroom, to experience something new, and to connect with faculty, community leaders, and classmates across the grade levels in a unique and special way. The mock trial week involved community coaches and advisors working with students of all grade levels to prepare both sides of a fictitious criminal environmental case. The week began with a visit to the Vermont Supreme Court and the observation of a real trial in Burlington, and culminated on Friday with the trial of the case, with defense attorney Robert Katims presiding as judge.  During the trial, students acted as lawyers and witnesses and argued both the sides of the case.

“I was so impressed to witness first-hand the students’ thorough preparation, as well as their unique and refreshing perspectives to this criminal environmental case.  I hope that the whole experience ignited their interest and fostered a deeper understanding of law and our justice system,” said Katims. 

Katims’ work with Hoff Curtis focuses on criminal and DWI defense. He joined Hoff Curtis in 1993 and has defended some of the more infamous murder cases in the state.  Bob received his B.A. degree in political science from the University of Vermont in 1983 and his J.D, cum laude, from Vermont Law School in 1988. He prosecuted criminal cases for the State of Vermont and has appeared dozens of times before the Vermont Supreme Court.