Every semester, Melissa Boucher, Counsel at Werge & Corbin Law Group, brings the courtroom to life for her Legal Issues in Social Work class at Metropolitan State University of Denver—and it’s anything but theoretical.
As part of their curriculum, masters-level social work students testify as DHS case workers in a high-stakes mock trial based on a fictional child dependency and neglect case. These aren’t just pretend scenarios in a classroom. These trials take place in an actual judge’s courtroom, providing an immersive, realistic environment that mirrors what they may face as future caseworkers.
The students take the stand and testify—without a single note in front of them—after memorizing the history of the case, the recommended treatment plan, and the parents’ compliance with the plan. They’re questioned by real attorneys playing the roles of County Attorney, Guardian ad Litem, and Respondent Parent Counsel, bringing both intensity and authenticity to the experience. Melissa grades each student’s performance based on their testimony, professionalism, and ability to think on their feet—just like they’ll need to in the real world.
Why is this important? Because for many students, this is their first exposure to the legal side of social work. And it’s a side they absolutely need to understand. Social workers are often the voice of DHS in court, advocating for children’s safety and family stability. With that role comes immense power and responsibility—if misused, it can fracture families rather than help reunite them. Melissa’s class teaches students to wield that power with clarity, confidence, and compassion.
The feedback speaks for itself. Students routinely describe the experience as their “favorite” assignment and say they “learned so much” from the trial. It’s a transformative assignment that stays with them far beyond the classroom.
A special shout-out to Metropolitan State University of Denver, a university committed to breaking down barriers to higher education and creating student-centered learning experiences like this one.
Are you an attorney who wants to volunteer for a future mock trial? Melissa is always looking for professionals to participate! Reach out to her at melissa@werge.law to get involved.
Because the best way to prepare social workers for the courtroom—is to actually put them in one.
In addition to supporting Werge & Corbin Law Group’s litigation practice, Melissa works with small business and nonprofit clients in transactional matters, including entity formation, corporate governance, contracting, and dissolution.
Werge & Corbin Law Group provides efficient, high quality legal services to small businesses and individuals. We are focused on serving small businesses, music and entertainment industry clients, creatives, and nonprofits. Our strengths lie in both transactional and litigation work. We cover most legal issues that small businesses encounter from formation through dissolution.