Attorneys to talk justice system with pupils

A prosecuting attorney and a defense attorney will explain to NW students the judiciary process and some pros and cons of the U.S. justice system.

Ann Montgomery-Moran, assistant district attorney for Ellis County, will represent the prosecuting side while Jerry Wood, a private attorney, will be on the defense side of The Prosecution vs. The Defense 11 a.m.-noon April 21 in WSTU 1305.

“We have an adversarial process, pitting one side against the other,” said Julie Lantrip, NW government associate professor and the event’s faculty sponsor. “It’s hard for students to understand why the process is set up that way.”

Lantrip is bringing one of her Texas government classes to the discussion.

The lawyers will explain the criminal trial process and their respective roles in trial.

“I am planning to cover my background, why I do what I do and what our office does,” Montgomery-Moran said. “As a prosecutor, my duty is to see that justice is served.”

Lantrip said she’ll also ask the lawyers to discuss the pros and cons of a system that bends over backward to protect the accused and the influence lawyers have.

“I think it’s good to understand how much impact each lawyer can have on a trial,” she said.

Free refreshments will be offered, and Lantrip said she will sign off on any extra credit proof students need.

— Bethany Peterson