On May 22, 2026, the Legal Clinic of the University of Tetova organized a simulated trial inspired by the classic American novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, “The Great Gatsby” The activity took place at the premises of the Legal Clinic and offered students a unique intersection of law, literature, and American cinematography.
The case addressed in this simulated trial concerned a civil lawsuit for wrongful death, through which the plaintiff sought compensation for damages. The proceedings were conducted based on the legislation of the State of New York, while two student teams took opposing roles before a judicial panel composed of two judges.
The project was implemented by the coordinator of the Legal Clinic, Prof. Njomza Selimi–Osmani, in cooperation with Professor James Lofton from Washington and Lee University, lawyer Ibraim Bajrami, and Judge Betim Jahja of the Court of Appeal in Skopje. Serving as a juror was also Prof. Michelle Morgan, who has, for two consecutive years, carried out her Fulbright Scholar program at the University of Tetova.
After several weeks of intensive preparation and mentoring by professors and legal experts, the participating students demonstrated a high level of professionalism in legal argumentatio, presentation of evidence, as well as in direct and cross-examination questioning. Through their case theories, they competently defended the interests of the parties before the judicial panel composed of Judge Betim Jahja and juror Michelle Morgan.
At the conclusion of the activity, the Rector of the University of Tetova, Prof. Dr. Jusuf Zejneli, awarded a certificate of appreciation and a symbolic gift to Professor James Lofton for his contribution to the University of Tetova. Additionally, Prof. Njomza Selimi–Osmani presented symbolic gifts to Prof. Michelle Morgan and to the representative of the U.S. Embassy in Skopje, Gazmend Iljazi, as a sign of gratitude for their cooperation and continuous support.
The activity was held on the eve of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the declaration of independence of the United States of America, within the framework of the American national initiative “Freedom 250”.
