Oliver Young, a longtime member of the New York State Bar Association, shared his experiences with the association’s Mock Trial Competition in a statement released on Apr. 3 as part of its 150th anniversary commemoration.
The association is highlighting personal recollections from members to mark its milestone year and reflect on its role in promoting legal education and engagement among youth. Each year, approximately 4,000 high school students participate in the New York State Bar Association’s Mock Trial Competition.
Young said one of his most memorable moments came during his time as an attorney adviser for a high school mock trial team in Erie County. “In 1985, I was serving as an attorney adviser for a high school mock trial team in Erie County. We won the county and regional competition and got the chance to go to the statewide competition in Albany. We came in second place in the state. It was the first time that school had gone that far, and it is something I will always remember. After that win, I joined the Law, Youth and Citizenship committee and later became its chair. As the chair of the subcommittee that runs Mock Trial, it’s great to interact with the students each year and see how they put the case together. I continue to enjoy every minute of it!”
The New York State Bar Association fosters cultural and social well-being through initiatives designed to promote equal access to justice and public understanding of law according to its official website. The organization also uses its Bar Center in Albany for administrative operations and member programs according to its official website.
With members from all 50 states and over 100 countries worldwide according to its official website, the association extends services not only across New York but internationally as well. Its mission includes advancing professional success for legal professionals while upholding equal access to justice according to its official website. The group also supports legislative efforts aimed at promoting these goals according to its official website.
The association encourages other members who have special memories related to their involvement or impact through NYSBA programs or events over past decades—such as participation or mentorship within youth initiatives—to share their stories for possible inclusion on their website.
