The Washington University Mock Trial team is one of the University's most successful competitive organizations. We hope you take some time to learn about exactly what it is that we do. If you're curious about what Mock Trial is, keep reading, and hopefully we will answer some of your questions. After you've read to your heart's content, remember that it isn't just what we do that makes this activity great, but also the people we do it with. Check out the Members section and the Gallery to see for yourself.
If Mock Trial sounds like your type of sport, head over to the Recruitment Center to see how you can become a part of the team.
The American Mock Trial Association "was founded in 1985 by Dean Richard Calkins of Drake Law School. AMTA serves as the governing body for intercollegiate mock trial competition. 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."
What does the mock trial team do?
We work with our coaches and advisors to argue both sides of a fictitious case that is authored by the American Mock Trial Association. During competition, students act as lawyers and witness and argue both the prosecution and defense side of the case.
How many people are on a team?
In competition each team consists of up to 8 people. There are 3 attorneys and 3 witnesses on each side of the case. It is common for students to play roles on both sides of the case. WU Mock Trial often sends multiple teams to tournaments so that many students are able to participate.
How long are tournaments and competitions? Who judges you?
Tournaments usually last two to three days. They are always held on weekends. During a tournament, we compete in four trials. Each trial will last a minimum of two hours and no more than three hours. We are judged by law students, practicing attorneys, judges, and even State Supreme Court Justices at the National Tournament!
Where do you compete?
Throughout the season, different schools will host tournaments, meaning that the WUMT program tends to travel. Last year, teams went to Chicago, Louisville, North Carolina, Arizona, and even Washington D.C.