Mock Trial for Dummies: Chapter One

Chapter 1: Getting Started

So you want to join Mock Trial? Interested in getting experience at what it’s like in a courtroom? Well, you’re looking at the right place, your school’s Mock Trial team. And no, you’re not un-cool for wanting to join this group. Many people are involved in Mock Trial, from high school to college. In fact, Mock Trial has grown so large that there are national competitions for high schools and college teams. People join Mock Trial not only to prepare for a career as a lawyer but also to meet and make many friends and to travel the country to face other schools, such as Harvard or Yale. And don’t judge this activity on my description; it’s a lot more fun than it sounds.

Now, before you get started, there are several things you need to keep in mind.

First, Mock Trial is not for everyone. Even though Mock Trial can be fun, it will strain your mind and schedule. Not only do you need to memorize page after page of case material, you have to memorize the rules. Why do you need to memorize rules? You will be using those rules for an entire year on your case. Also you must have time to practice with the team and take time with your coaches to achieve the best way to argue your side. If your school workload is already too high or you need to work many days a week, then think carefully before committing yourself to a team.

Second, Mock Trial is very competitive and with any competition comes emotional drama. It’s hard to believe but tempers do run high in any Mock Trial tournament. It can be said that everyone in these tournaments strives to be perfect in their performance and even the slightest slip up can reduce a person to tears. What’s required for Mock Trial is a sportsmanship attitude and a willingness to accept mistakes.