Mock Trial Competition

The Mock Trial competition is an excellent opportunity for students to advance their advocacy skills. This competition simulates what a litigator experiences while in trial. The student has the opportunity to present a case to a third party who judges the credibility of the advocates, the witnesses, and the case in general. The competitors in this competition deal with such adversities as hostile witnesses, objections from opposing counsel, and interactions with the judge. Mock Trial combines the art of public speaking, with the ability to prepare a strong case.

Mock Trial challenges all aspects of a competitor’s advocacy skills. For example, the students must display their ability to handle evidence, witnesses, and objections. The format of mock trial allows for each partner to perform direct and cross examinations, and either an opening or a closing statement. Mock trial is an excellent opportunity to accurately and succinctly simulate the courtroom experience.

This time spent planning for this competition as similar to the time spent preparing for Moot Court. For the purposes of this competition, two counselors comprise one team. Competitors are free to choose their own teammate, but if a competitor is unable to find a teammate, the Board may pair up two single competitors upon their request. The competition proceeds as follows:

1. Competitors sign up as a team in the Board office on the designated days.
2. Competitors attend a mandatory meeting given by the Mock Trial committee.
3. Each team is given a set of facts and the applicable law in order to prepare its case.
4. The plaintiff/state gives an opening statement.
5. The defendant/defense gives an opening statement.
6. The plaintiff/state presents its case in chief which includes examining two witnesses and presenting exhibit evidence. (During the plaintiff’s case in chief the defendant has an opportunity to cross examine witnesses.)
7. The defendant/defense presents its case in chief which includes examining two witnesses and presenting exhibit evidence. (During the defendant’s case in chief the plaintiff has an opportunity to cross examine witnesses.)
8. The plaintiff gives its closing argument.
9. The defendant gives its closing argument.
10. The plaintiff is allowed a brief rebuttal.
11. Judge(s) are present during the entire round to evaluate performances and to preside over the proceeding.