Mock trial is a tradition for mother, son duo

Mock trial at Montgomery County High School is a family tradition handed down from one generation to the next for Chandre Hatton and Liam Bourne.

Hatton, the mother, was a member of the state champion mock trial team in 1994. Son Liam repeated the accomplishment as a current member of the team that captured the state title.

This year’s team heads to nationals May 7-9 in Des Moines, Iowa.

Hatton told the Advocate winning the mock trial title in 94 was both challenging and rewarding.

“Mock trial was the first experience that I remember feeling really recognized for being a smart kid,” she said. “It was, without hesitation, the most challenging activity I did in high school. And it has helped me in so many ways.”

Hatton is a board certified advanced practice registered nurse.

“I work with the specialty population of women dealing with addiction. I have been in the space for close to a decade now and I have loved every minute of this career and specialty.”

She said mock trial has served her well throughout life.  

“More that in anything it taught me how to frame questions and communicate in a clear and concise manner.”

Hatton called Liam an inspiration.

“It is a thrill to see Liam take on the same activities,” Hatton said. “But without hesitation I can say he exceeds all of the comparisons. He is so much more brave than I ever remember being. The confidence with which he participates in everything he does is inspiring.  

“I would love to take credit for his successes but there have been many that contributed to his curiosity and ability to be a strong communicator,” she said. “His second mom is Judge (Elizabeth) Davis and I have to give her a lot of credit with the shaping of my son’s mind. He has loved learning from legal expertise and her husband’s.” 

Likewise, Coach Ryan Allison has been a big influence on Liam, his mother said.

“Liam loves his lightning wit and ability to always have the right answer,” Hatton said. “His father (James Bourne, from New York City, N.Y.)  also deserves some credit. His debate skills are on point because of political discussions and arguments with his dad, and his dad’s encouragement every day.” 

Hatton is confident Liam will be successful at whatever he pursues beyond high school.

Bourne said having a mother who has gone through mock trial has helped.

“My mom brought Montgomery County a state title in 1994, which was our first of 17,” Bourne said. “She has talked to me about her championship trial every time I have competed in the state tournament and has given me beneficial advice pertaining to nerves. Alongside that, she has given me general advice on professionalism and how to have a healthy outlook on competition, which is something I can take with me outside of the courtroom.”

He said it’s an honor to be part of such a successful program.

The junior plans to pursue either music or journalism.

Greg Hatton is Liam’s stepfather.