The East Texas Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) successfully conducted an impactful 7th Amendment Symposium on February 12, 2026, in Henderson, Texas. This educational initiative brought together legal professionals, educators, and students to celebrate and promote the fundamental right to trial by jury.
Event Overview and Participation
The symposium attracted 130 enthusiastic high school students from Henderson High School, organized through the dedicated efforts of Sue Ellen Perry, the 2022 TEX-ABOTA Champion of Justice. Under the expert guidance of Rusty Phenix, who presided over the symposium, students gained invaluable firsthand experience with the American civil justice system and the right to civil trial by jury.
Comprehensive Court System Education
The educational program provided students with thorough instruction regarding civil jury trials across multiple judicial levels within the Texas court system. Students learned about the distinct roles and jurisdictions of Justice Courts, Constitutional County Courts, Statutory County Courts, and District Courts. The program was further enhanced by presentations from sitting judges representing each court level, offering students authentic insights into judicial proceedings and the importance of jury service.
Following their introduction to the Rusk County court system, students transitioned from passive observers to active participants in the process of a civil trial.
Interactive Mock Proceedings
Voir Dire Demonstration
The symposium featured a compelling mock voir dire examination that transformed the student body into a prospective jury panel. East Texas ABOTA members Clay Wilder, representing the plaintiff, and Rusty Phenix, representing the defendant, conducted a realistic jury selection process. Throughout the examination, the attorneys paused strategically to explain various aspects of jury selection, ensuring students understood both the practical and theoretical elements of this critical phase of trial proceedings.
Upon completion of the voir dire process, twelve students were selected to serve as jurors, with two additional students designated as alternates. The newly empaneled jury was formally sworn in, marking their transition from observers to decision-makers.
Mock Trial Proceedings
The Henderson High School Mock Trial Team demonstrated their skills by presenting a personal injury case before the student jury. Retired District Judge Clay Gossett presided over the proceedings, ensuring the trial adhered strictly to Texas law and established legal procedures. This authentic courtroom experience provided students with comprehensive exposure to trial advocacy, evidence presentation, and judicial oversight.
Following compelling closing arguments from both sides, the student jury retired for deliberations. After careful consideration of the evidence and legal instructions, the jury returned a unanimous verdict in favor of the defendant.
Student Engagement and Recognition
The educational experience concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session designed to reinforce key concepts covered throughout the symposium. Students demonstrated their engagement and comprehension by responding to questions about the court system, jury service, and trial procedures. Correct responses were rewarded with gift cards, adding an element of friendly competition to the learning experience.
At 11:30 AM, all participants gathered on the Rusk County Courthouse grounds for a pizza lunch, providing an informal opportunity for students to interact with legal professionals and reflect on their courthouse experience.
Acknowledgments and Impact
The success of this 7th Amendment Symposium reflects the exceptional dedication of Suellen Perry, whose continued commitment to promoting civil jury trial rights among high school students in Henderson, Texas, deserves special recognition. Her ability to assemble such an engaged and enthusiastic group of students eager to learn about the civil justice system demonstrates the vital importance of civic education.
This symposium represents more than an educational event; it embodies the democratic principles underlying the 7th Amendment and ensures that future generations understand and appreciate their role in the American justice system. The enthusiasm and participation demonstrated by the Henderson High School students on this day exemplifies the enduring strength of constitutional rights and civic engagement in East Texas.
The February 12, 2026 ,symposium stands as a testament to the power of experiential learning and the commitment of legal professionals to nurture informed, engaged citizens who will carry forward the traditions of American jurisprudence.
