What is mock trial?

The mock trials are structured like real courtroom trials and follow similar rules and procedures. High school students learn first-hand how the legal system works and what role judges, lawyers, juries, and witnesses play in the court system. This increased understanding helps students develop a deeper appreciation for our justice system and the administration of justice. The competition also helps students develop and improve their public speaking and critical thinking skills.

How do I start a team?

The High School Mock Trial Program is a wonderful opportunity for students of all backgrounds, but it needs dedicated teacher coaches willing to start teams at their schools. Each mock trial team is comprised of 6-10 students who compete as lawyers, witnesses, and timekeepers. Schools can have more than one team compete in the competition, allowing for more students to take part in the competition. During a trial, each team will have 3-4 student lawyers, 3 student witnesses, and 1 student timekeeper. Each team will compete at least twice, once as the plaintiff/prosecution, and once as the defense. Schools advancing past the preliminary rounds will try both sides of the same case again.

Teams also need a teacher coach to coordinate team logistics and practice times and spaces, and, ideally, an attorney coach to help the team with trial preparation and presentation. Teams set their own practice frequency and duration. BAMSL is available to assist teams with locating an attorney coach.

Team registration generally opens in early October and closes in early December. The case packet is typically available in late October or early November.

Resources

• How to Start a Team Info Sheet
• Borrow a copy of Championship Mock Trial: The Guide for Students and Coaches by Hon. David Nelmark and Justin Berstein (© 2022 American Bar Association). Buy your own copy.