What is Mock Trial?

"Through engaging in trial simulations in competition with teams from other institutions, students develop critical thinking and public speaking skills, as well as a knowledge of legal practices and procedures."

~ American Mock Trial Association ~

WHAT IS MOCK TRIAL?

Mock trial is a competition structured around the imitation of a real life court trial. In any given trial, three members act as attorneys and three act as witnesses. Attorneys are responsible for conducting opening and closing statements, questioning the witnesses on direct and cross examinations, and handling objection battles with the other team’s attorneys. Meanwhile, the witnesses are responsible for portraying their characters convincingly and presenting evidence for their team’s side while they are being questioned on the witness stand. Witnesses provide important testimony about the facts of a case, while the attorneys elicit this testimony and defend it from objections. As a competitor, you will be evaluated by legal professionals who serve as tournament judges based on your performance, preparation, and cleanliness.

Mock trial encompasses a wide variety of abilities including public speaking, acting, as well as debate. Mock trial strengthens already existing talent and ability, as well as establishing the ability to think quickly on your feet and adapt to unprecedented events during trial.

The UARK Mock Trial Program offers the opportunity to become a member of one of the most tight-knit, diverse, and supportive communities on campus. Our program has the unique opportunity of traveling across the country with some of your closest friends, competing against schools like Patrick Henry, Emory, Florida, Penn State, and Cornell. Mock trial is one of the most competitive environments you can be involved in, but is simultaneously the most rewarding and supportive environment.

For more information on Mock Trial, visit the website of the American Mock Trial Association, the governing organization of collegiate Mock Trial in the United States.